Apoptosis means pre-programmed cell death. High dose steroids (corticosteroids which are commonly used to decrease swelling) have been implicated in causing this condition. When I first heard about this issue from chiropractors and physical therapists years ago, I though it was an alternative medicine marketing tactic. However, as I read more, it became clear that these negative effects of steroids on muscles, bones, cartilage, and ligament were quite real. I have summarized those here:
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