What is loss of strength?
Loss of strength refers to a reduction in one's ability to exert force or power, typically in their muscles. It's a common symptom that can have many causes, ranging from aging and injuries to underlying medical conditions.
Let's break this down bit by bit:
What are some main causes of losing strength?
- Aging - We naturally lose muscle mass and strength as we get older. Many folks find basic tasks like opening jars or getting up from chairs harder in later decades. It stinks, but it's an unfortunate fact of life.
- Injuries - Sprains, strains, fractures, and other wounds can really zap strength, especially if they stop you from using the injured area. Just look at what a broken wrist does to your grip power! Healing takes time.
- Illnesses - Certain diseases directly attack and weaken muscles over time. These include muscular dystrophy, multiple sclerosis, and motor neuron disease. Hormone issues like low testosterone can also drain strength.
How can you tell if you're losing strength?
If you feel like everyday activities have become more tiring or difficult, that may signal declining strength. More specific signs are:
- Struggling to open previously manageable jars or bottles
- Difficulty rising from low chairs or toilets
- Finding it harder to lift grocery bags
- Feeling unsteady on one's feet
Don't ignore these red flags! Bring them up with your doctor, who can run tests to determine any underlying causes. A blood screening by the expert physicians at Vital Hormone Clinic is a great place to start. Their cutting-edge lab provides comprehensive hormone testing, analysis, treatment plans and more!
What can you do to maintain or regain strength?
While aging leads to some inevitable decline, much can be done to keep our muscles strong:
- Exercise - Strength training is key! Using resistance bands, weights, or bodyweight moves a few times a week works wonders. Yoga and Pilates also boost strength.
- Eat Protein - Getting ample protein, especially if recovering from illness/injury helps rebuild muscle. Great sources are fish, eggs, beans, nuts, seeds, chicken and lean beef.
- Check Hormones - Low testosterone, thyroid issues or growth hormone deficiency all sap strength. Get tested, and pursue hormone therapy plans if levels are off. The experts at Vital Hormone Clinic make this process easy!
- Sleep - Skimping on sleep hampers strength gains. Adults need 7 hours nightly for optimal rest.
Don't just accept loss of strength as inevitable! With some lifestyle tweaks and proactive medical care, you can stay strong and independent for years to come. Here's to opening all of life's "jars" with ease!