What is the effect of denervation atrophy on muscles?

Denervation atrophy is the process that occurs when muscles lose their nerve supply. Without the stimulation and signals from the nervous system, the muscle fibers do not receive the necessary cues to maintain their structure and function. This lack of neural input leads to a significant decrease in muscle fiber size, resulting in muscle shrinkage. Over time, the muscle tissue undergoes degeneration and is replaced by fibrous connective tissue and fat, which may further contribute to the loss of overall muscle mass.

This condition emphasizes the critical role that neural connections play in muscle maintenance and health. Without proper innervation, even well-conditioned muscles can weaken and atrophy, illustrating the dependence of muscle integrity on the nervous system’s signals.