Myopathies

What are myopathies?

Myopathies are diseases that cause problems with the tone and contraction of the muscles that control voluntary movement, also called skeletal muscles. Because skeletal muscles support posture, weakness can lead to skeletal deformities.

There are different forms of myopathies including inherited, idiopathic, infectious, metabolic, inflammatory, endocrine, and drug-induced or toxic. Muscular dystrophies are an inherited form of myopathies.

Some inherited myopathies cause severe muscle weakness that creates problems with basic functions like swallowing and breathing.

Other inherited myopathies cause episodes of muscle weakness or stiffness that are milder and temporary.

Some myopathies can give people a listless facial expression, caused by weakness of the muscles in the face.

Symptoms of acquired myopathies include weakness and shrinking of the muscles around the shoulders and hips, muscle stiffness, cramps, and slowed reflexes. In severe cases, muscles break down.

Treatments for Myopathies

Treatments for myopathies vary depending on the type of myopathy. Some myopathies, especially those that are present from birth, have life-threatening complications.

With time and physical therapy, some people born with myopathies can gain muscle strength. Others can manage their symptoms through medication, lifestyle modifications, or use of orthopedic and respiratory equipment.

Myopathies are not caused by overexertion. However, exercise can aggravate some myopathies because of mutations that change the way muscles respond to activity.