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Sarcopenia Rehabilitation

Treatment of age-related loss of muscle mass and strength.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Fizik Tedavi ve Rehabilitasyon department. Book Appointment →

What is Sarcopenia Rehabilitation?

Sarcopenia is the age-related progressive loss of muscle mass, strength and physical performance. EWGSOP2 (European Working Group on Sarcopenia in Older People 2019) criteria require reduced muscle strength, reduced muscle mass and reduced physical performance for diagnosis.

Assessment uses muscle strength (grip, chair-stand), muscle mass (DXA, BIA) and physical performance (gait speed, SPPB). Cases are classified as probable (low strength), confirmed (low mass added) or severe (low performance added) sarcopenia.

Core rehabilitation components are resistance exercise (gold standard), protein intake (1.2–1.5 g/kg/day), vitamin D supplementation, adequate energy intake and regular follow-up. Exercise remains the most effective intervention.

Symptoms

Muscle weakness
Slowing of gait
Increased fall risk
Difficulty climbing stairs
Difficulty rising from a chair
Generalised malaise and fatigue

Risk Factors

Age over 65
Sedentary lifestyle
Malnutrition (low protein)
Chronic disease
Cancer and chemotherapy
Hormonal changes (low testosterone)

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • When muscle weakness is noticed in an older adult
  • When gait speed slows
  • With a history of falls
  • With involuntary weight loss
  • With difficulty in daily activities

Treatment Methods

01
SARC-F or EWGSOP2 diagnostic algorithm
02
High-intensity resistance exercise (2–3 days per week)
03
Aerobic exercise (150 minutes per week)
04
Protein intake of 1.2–1.5 g/kg/day
05
Vitamin D supplementation (800–1000 IU/day)
06
Creatine monohydrate supplementation (5 g/day)
07
Dietitian support
08
Regular performance monitoring

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Fizik Tedavi ve Rehabilitasyon department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Fizik Tedavi ve Rehabilitasyon Department

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.