The Facts About Sarcopenia: Causes, Symptoms and Treatment Options

Unfortunately, as we age, we lose muscle mass and strength, impacting our function and quality of life. This condition, known as Sarcopenia, most intensely affects older adults and those with significant health challenges. Here are some causes of sarcopenia, what risks it can increase, and how best to treat it.

Although the mechanisms behind sarcopenia are not fully understood, risk factors include:

• Living an inactive lifestyle
• Inadequate nutrition
• Vitamin D deficiency
• Various chronic health conditions – including cardiovascular disease, dementia, and diabetes, among others

Prevalence and risks

As a result of an aging population, the prevalence of sarcopenia also continues to increase across our community. This is a significant issue given the multitude of risks, which include:

• Decreased mobility
• Increased risk of falls
• Increased risk of fractures
• Poorer prognosis for surgeries
• Increased risk of death

Treatment

The good news is that there are a range of treatments that can counteract the effects of sarcopenia. Treatment will generally involve several aspects, given the range of potential risk factors.

Resistance training

Resistance training, also known as strength training, involves exercises designed to challenge and build strength across various muscle groups. Depending on goals and suitability, this can take various forms, including Pilates training, supervised weight training, or home exercises.

Balance training

Balance training involves interventions and exercises designed to challenge and build balance. As with resistance training, this can be performed during Pilates classes, supervised exercise or at home with input from a physiotherapist.

Nutritional interventions

Interventions designed to address nutritional deficiencies may be required. In addition to maintaining a balanced diet, consider talking with your doctor if you would like more advice or onward referral to a nutrition professional.

Functional Assessment

Physiotherapy assessment for someone with sarcopenia or suspected sarcopenia would involve taking a history to determine any risk factors and looking at general measures of strength, mobility, balance and function, as well as looking at any measures. This could include:

• Measures of walking speed and mobility
• Measures of functional tasks – such as how many times someone can stand up from a chair within 30 seconds
• VALD testing – using Force Plate technology to determine and potentially train balance

Strength testing of relevant muscle groups – including grip strength and other larger muscle groups as relevant

Hopefully, this has given you an insight into sarcopenia and what can be done to treat this condition. If you or a loved one have further queries or wish to book an appointment, please contact our friendly reception team at 9078 8434 or book online at www.malvernphysio.com.au.

Written by Christopher Lawry

Physiotherapist at Malvern Physiotherapy Clinic

Published August 7, 2024