What does the term "muscle atrophy" mean?

Muscle atrophy refers to the reduction or wasting away of muscle tissue, leading to a decrease in muscle mass. This process can occur for several reasons, including disuse due to inactivity, aging, malnutrition, or specific medical conditions. When muscles are not used or are subjected to prolonged immobilization, the body starts to break down muscle proteins at a faster rate than they are produced, resulting in a decrease in size and strength of the affected muscles. Understanding muscle atrophy is essential in various clinical settings, as it can significantly impact an individual's ability to perform daily activities and overall quality of life.