.png)
.png)
Myopathy is a disease of muscle tissues. There are different types of myopathies, but they are all neuro in nature and result in symptoms such as muscle weakness, muscle cramps and/or spasms, muscle pain, as well as stiffness and reduced mobility. It is safe to say that this type of muscle disease can have a negative impact on one’s overall quality of life.
There are several different myopathies out there – and although they all impact the muscles, each type is different than the next. Let’s take a look at the different types.
There are six types of myopathies that are inherited from immediate family members. These types are often found on the X chromosome, with females being diagnosed at a higher frequency. The muscular dystrophy, Duchenne and Becker is perhaps the most common inherited myopathy.
Autoimmune disorders (a.k.a. Inflammatory disorders) happen when the body attacks itself. Therefore, with inflammatory myopathies, the body begins to attack its own muscles – resulting in pain and damage. Two types of inflammatory myopathies are Polymyositis (PM) and Dermatomyositis (DM).
Polymyositis is characterized by aches, cramps, and soreness of the muscles with fluctuating pain. Dermatomyositis, on the other hand, has these same symptoms, but also includes a skin rash – which eventually greatly affects large areas of the skin.
Endocrine myopathies are found in people of all ages, young and old, and they are often caused by hormones that either over or under-produce. While there are several different types, below are the four main types.
Steroid myopathy. This is the most common of the endocrines and is caused due to an excess of steroids. This could be due to disorders involving the adrenal glands or as the result of someone who continuously takes steroids. The muscles get weak and will eventually begin to deteriorate.
Cushing’s disease. This occurs when the pituitary and/or adrenal glands produce too many hormones. Myopathy is the result.
Hyperthyroid myopathy. When the thyroid produces too much hormone, myopathy can occur. Weakness and deteriorating muscles are most often present.
Hypothyroid myopathy. When the thyroid fails to produce enough hormones, muscles may become enlarged and weak.
When a substance, whether prescribed or otherwise, is consumed, toxic myopathy can result. This can occur with substances such as excessive alcohol, narcotics, anesthetics, cholesterol drugs, glucocorticoids, herbicides, insecticides, and more.
All myopathies can bring on debilitating pain and feelings of hopelessness. Getting to the root cause of your pain is a great place to start feeling like your best self.
If you have been diagnosed with one of these types of myopathies or would like to learn about a natural approach to healing, contact Dr. Randy Hansbrough and his team at (561) 287-7701. Or, let’s talk about your personal health concerns during a free, 30-minute consultation. Schedule yours today!
