Front lat spread, Bhanky.
Shut the haterz up.
The shrinking or atrophy of the latissimus dorsi (lat) muscles can be caused by various injuries and conditions. Some of the primary reasons include:
1. **Nerve Injuries**: Damage to the nerves that supply the latissimus dorsi, particularly the thoracodorsal nerve, can lead to muscle atrophy. This can occur due to direct trauma, surgical complications, or conditions like brachial plexus injury.
2. **Muscle Tears**: A significant tear in the latissimus dorsi muscle, often due to activities involving heavy lifting or sudden, forceful movements, can result in muscle atrophy if not properly treated or rehabilitated.
3. **Chronic Strain or Overuse**: Repeated overuse or chronic strain from activities like rowing, swimming, or certain types of weightlifting can lead to muscle damage and eventual atrophy.
4. **Disuse Atrophy**: Prolonged periods of inactivity or immobilization, such as being bedridden or having an arm in a sling, can cause the lat muscles to shrink due to lack of use.
5. **Systemic Conditions**: Conditions such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), muscular dystrophy, or other neuromuscular disorders can lead to generalized muscle atrophy, including the latissimus dorsi.
6. **Infections**: Severe infections that affect the muscles, such as abscesses or myositis, can lead to muscle tissue damage and subsequent atrophy.
7. **Circulatory Issues**: Poor blood supply to the muscle due to vascular diseases or injuries can result in muscle atrophy over time.