What are the signs of muscle weakness in immobile patients?

What are the signs of muscle weakness in immobile patients?

• A. Increased muscle tone and strength
• B. Hypertonia
• C. Improved coordination
• D. Decreased muscle tone and strength, and loss of muscle mass

Answer: (D)

When muscles aren’t used, they undergo disuse atrophy, so weakness shows up as a combination of decreased muscle tone, reduced strength, and loss of muscle mass. The limbs may feel softer or less firm, the patient may have a diminished ability to move against gravity or resist effort, and the muscles may appear smaller or wasted. These signs reflect the decline in muscle bulk and contractile strength from inactivity. In contrast, higher-than-normal muscle tone (hypertonia) or any claim of improved coordination would not indicate weakness, so the pattern described here best fits immobility-related weakness. Addressing it involves promoting safe movement, passive or active ROM as feasible, progressive resistance exercises as tolerated, and adequate nutrition to support muscle maintenance.

When muscles aren’t used, they undergo disuse atrophy, so weakness shows up as a combination of decreased muscle tone, reduced strength, and loss of muscle mass. The limbs may feel softer or less firm, the patient may have a diminished ability to move against gravity or resist effort, and the muscles may appear smaller or wasted. These signs reflect the decline in muscle bulk and contractile strength from inactivity. In contrast, higher-than-normal muscle tone (hypertonia) or any claim of improved coordination would not indicate weakness, so the pattern described here best fits immobility-related weakness. Addressing it involves promoting safe movement, passive or active ROM as feasible, progressive resistance exercises as tolerated, and adequate nutrition to support muscle maintenance.