key term - Atrophy

Definition

Atrophy is the process in which muscle tissue wastes away or decreases in size due to a lack of physical activity, aging, or disease. It results from the disuse or weakening of muscle fibers over time.

Related terms

Hypertrophy:

Hypertrophy is an increase in muscle size and volume due to exercise, particularly strength training.

Sarcopenia:

Sarcopenia is the loss of muscle mass and strength associated with aging, leading to decreased mobility and independence.

Neurogenic atrophy: Neurogenic atrophy occurs when there is damage to a nerve that connects to the muscles, often resulting in a more rapid loss of muscle mass than disuse atrophy