Dystrophy is a term that is used to describe various diseases that may cause overall weakness in the muscles. Atrophy, on the other hand, is another term that is used, but this describes how the spinal nerves are affected, which can eventually lead to the weakness of the muscles. There are different parts that are being targeted.
Take note that these two types of diseases are more common than people think they are. This can be genetically passed on from one generation to another. Men are also more likely to suffer from these conditions as compared to women, but there are not enough studies that will bring light as to why this happens.