Can I still gain muscle/size in my arms with severe upper-limb muscle atrophy?
I’m 19 years old, around 181–182 cm (5’11”) and 48–50 kg (106–110 lbs).
I have severe muscle atrophy in my upper limbs due to a congenital spinal cord condition, with significant weakness and reduced muscle function in my arms. I also have secondary syringomyelia. My lower limbs are relatively spared.
My arms are very thin, and I’d like to know whether it is realistically possible for me to increase their size or gain some muscle mass despite the severe atrophy.
I’m not looking for a diagnosis or asking anyone to replace my doctor. I’m mainly interested in hearing from people with similar neurological conditions or upper-limb muscle atrophy.
Has anyone in a similar situation been able to increase the size or muscle mass of their arms? If so, what kind of adapted exercise, physiotherapy, nutrition, or other approach helped you?
My goal isn’t necessarily to regain normal muscle function. I’d simply like to know whether gaining some muscle or volume is realistically possible in my situation.