Word parts
What it means
A broad term for conditions that affect the muscles, rather than the nerves that control them. Causes include inherited diseases such as muscular dystrophy, inflammation, thyroid and other hormone problems, and drugs such as statins and corticosteroids. The main symptom is muscle weakness, often in the upper arms and thighs, sometimes with pain.
For the nurse
Teach clients taking a statin to report new muscle pain, tenderness or weakness, especially with dark urine.
At a glance
| Spanish | miopatía |
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Related terms
musculoskeletal
Having to do with the muscles, bones, joints, tendons and ligaments.
skeletal muscle
Muscle attached to bones that a person moves by choice, such as the muscles of the arms and legs.