The symptoms of muscle fibrosis primarily involve a loss of muscle strength and flexibility, often accompanied by pain and stiffness.
Here's a more detailed breakdown of the symptoms:
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Decreased Muscle Strength: Fibrosis impairs the muscle's ability to contract effectively, leading to noticeable weakness.
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Reduced Flexibility and Range of Motion: The scar tissue restricts the muscle's ability to stretch and move freely, limiting the range of motion in the affected area.
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Pain: While not always present, pain is a common symptom of muscle fibrosis. It can range from mild discomfort to severe, debilitating pain.
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Stiffness: The affected muscle may feel stiff, especially after periods of rest or inactivity.
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Tightness: A persistent feeling of tightness in the muscle is another common complaint.
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Visible or Palpable Hardening: In some cases, the fibrotic muscle may feel hard or thickened to the touch.
In summary, muscle fibrosis presents with a combination of impaired muscle function (weakness, stiffness, limited range of motion) and pain, stemming from the accumulation of scar tissue within the muscle.