What is the primary cause of exertional rhabdomyolysis?

The primary cause of exertional rhabdomyolysis is high-intensity exercise sessions. This condition occurs when muscle tissue breaks down at an accelerated rate, usually due to an increase in physical exertion that the body is not adequately prepared for. High-intensity workouts can lead to significant muscle strain and damage, resulting in the release of myoglobin and other intracellular components into the bloodstream.

This phenomenon is particularly common in athletes or individuals who suddenly increase their physical activity after a period of inactivity. During high-intensity exercise, muscle fibers can suffer micro-tears, and if the intensity is beyond what the muscles are conditioned for, it can overwhelm the body’s ability to repair itself, leading to rhabdomyolysis.

While factors such as prolonged inactivity, improper nutrition, and dehydration can contribute to the risk of developing this condition, they are not the primary cause. Prolonged inactivity might predispose someone to muscle damage during subsequent exertion, but without the triggering high-intensity exercise sessions, rhabdomyolysis would less likely occur. Proper hydration and nutrition can help minimize risk, but they do not induce exertional rhabdomyolysis in the same way that excessive physical exertion does.