Muscles
Muscles are elastic tissues, with their number depending on the size of the muscle itself. Within these tissues are small fibers that contain nerves responsible for their movement.
Muscles account for approximately 40% of the overall body mass, and most bodily movements and functions require muscle involvement. They are essential for the body’s ability to move and exert force, both internally and externally. Additionally, muscles contribute to the overall appearance and external shape of the body and the skeletal system. The principle of muscle function, regardless of size, is based on contraction and relaxation.
The muscles in the human body can be categorized into three types: skeletal muscles, which form the outer part of the body and provide shape as well as enable external movement; cardiac muscle, represented by the heart muscle, which is vital for pumping blood throughout the body and functions involuntarily; and smooth muscles, which line the internal organs, such as the stomach and intestines, and operate involuntarily.
At birth, humans possess all the muscles in their bodies, and while damaged muscles cannot be replaced, they can stretch and potentially compensate for lost function.
Muscles can be affected by diseases or issues, such as relaxation, which negatively impacts bodily movement and the ability to perform essential functions. This article aims to explore the causes of muscle relaxation.
Causes of Muscle Relaxation
The primary cause of muscle relaxation stems from damage to the fibers that compose the muscle, leading to its inability to function properly. This can also occur due to injury to the surrounding nerves, which adversely affects the muscle’s performance. Some common causes include:
- Deficiencies in vitamins and minerals in the body or issues with metabolism, where undigested substances accumulate due to a lack of specific enzymes.
- Damage to muscle fibers themselves, more prevalent among children. Affected individuals may experience difficulty performing voluntary movements, with symptoms worsening with age.
- Problems with the nerves surrounding the muscle, which convey information and commands from the brain, as well as relay the muscle’s reactions to various stimuli.
- Inherited disorders or malignant diseases that can damage and impair the nerves.
- Inflammation, such as viral infections, which may be caused by antibodies attacking the muscles or due to bacterial infections.