Supplements For Muscle Atrophy

Muscle atrophy, also known as muscle wasting, is the loss of muscle tissue. The University of Maryland Medical Center states that there are two types of muscle atrophy: disuse and neurogenic. Disuse atrophy occurs when your muscles are not used enough. Neurogenic atrophy occurs when one of your nerves is injured. Dietary supplements may be a helpful adjunct therapy in treating your muscle atrophy, but you should only take herbs if you are under the care of a licensed health care practitioner.

Muscle Atrophy

There are numerous possible causes of muscle atrophy. MedlinePlus notes that the following conditions may all cause atrophy: burns, ALS, alcohol associated myopathy, polymyositis, traumatic injuries, long-term immobilization, muscular dystrophy, osteoarthritis, polio, rheumatoid arthritis, extreme malnutrition, stroke and injuries to your spinal cord. The loss of even a small amount of muscle mass or tissue may cause noticeable decreases in your strength and ability to move or perform your activities of daily living.

Helpful Supplements

Several nutritional supplements may be helpful in treating your muscle atrophy, although some supplements used for this health purpose have not been scientifically proven to be effective. Two supplements that have shown some degree of efficacy in treating muscle atrophy, reports the University of Maryland Medical Center, include creatine and stinging nettle. Numerous supplements have been used in treating arthritis-related muscle atrophy, including anti-inflammatory supplements such as boswellia, turmeric and ginger.

Featured Supplement

Creatine, or creatine monohydrate, is a dietary supplement that may boost both your strength and endurance, notes Phyllis A. Balch, a certified nutritional consultant and author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing." Creatine is a naturally occurring protein building block, states the University of Maryland Medical Center, and it is found in fish and meat. Creatine may be particularly helpful in treating muscular dystrophy -- a condition in which you suffer muscle weakness and atrophy.

Disclaimer

Muscle atrophy is often a sign of serious underlying health problems. In most cases, muscle atrophy occurs as diseases progress, and it may be a later-stage symptom in certain illnesses. If you notice muscle wasting or decreased strength, contact your doctor as soon as possible for a full and thorough assessment of your condition. Your doctor can counsel you on appropriate therapies to help treat your underlying health problem. Supplements should not be used in place of other treatment options provided by your doctor.