At some point in your life you may suffer muscle deterioration, because it is a normal consequence of aging, inactivity and injury. This loss of muscle tone, also referred to as atrophy, is reversible with strength training and activity, however, unless it is caused by disease. Neurogenic diseases such as polio and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis — abbreviated ALS and also known as Lou Gehrig's disease — attack the nerves innervating the muscles and the atrophy is irreversible. Learn how to assess your muscles for deterioration and nourish them with exercise.
Step 1
Take stock in the mirror. Healthy muscle tissue appears firm and toned and will not jiggle when you bounce. Look at your major muscle groups -- the pectorals, or chest muscles, triceps and biceps on your arms and the quadriceps muscles on the front of your thighs.
Step 2
Measure your large muscle groups. Take measurements around mid-thigh and biceps. If you have prior measurements, compare the results. Deteriorating muscles will be smaller than healthy, hypertrophied muscles. If your measurements are decreasing, you are losing muscle mass.
Step 3
Pay attention to your posture and low back. Chronic low-back pain and poor posture may be an indication of deteriorating spinae erectors and abdominal muscles, the muscles that support your core.
Step 4
Ask your doctor to complete a blood test to check for elevated creatine kinase levels. Creatine kinase, or CK, is released into the bloodstream after muscle injury or a condition that causes deterioration, the KidsHealth website explains.
Tips and Warnings
- CK blood tests can have false positives if taken after a workout.
Things You'll Need
- Measuring tape
Member Comments