Which type of atrophy is commonly seen following disuse of a muscle?

The type of atrophy commonly seen following disuse of a muscle is localized atrophy. This occurs when a specific muscle or group of muscles diminishes in size and function due to lack of use, often seen in situations such as immobilization from injury, prolonged bed rest, or sedentary lifestyle. When a muscle is not regularly contracted or engaged in activity, the lack of stimulus leads to a decrease in muscle fiber size and strength, reflecting the body's adjustment to the reduced demand placed on that muscle.

Localized atrophy specifically identifies the shrinkage of tissues in a specific area, rather than affecting the body as a whole as seen in generalized atrophy, or relating to the body's normal physiological changes. It is not classified as physiological atrophy, which refers to changes that occur with age or normal developmental processes. While pathological atrophy involves a decline in tissue due to disease or classically understood pathological states, disuse-induced atrophy is generally not related to an underlying illness but rather to an absence of physical activity. Thus, localized atrophy is the most accurate description for muscle shrinkage attributable to disuse.