Patient's question:
My brother had a serious illness and was bedridden for over a year. He feels much thinner and his muscles aren't as strong as before. I want to ask if muscle atrophy may occur due to prolonged bed rest?Doctor's answer:
Lying in bed for a long time can lead to muscle atrophy, which has a compensatory expansion. To prevent muscle atrophy, family members need to provide enhanced care. Daily massage can be used to improve blood circulation in the muscles, strengthen muscle tension, and prevent severe muscle atrophy. If the patient is able to move, they should also perform limb exercises while in bed to strengthen the muscles and reduce muscle atrophy.