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Sarcopenia Treatment

Multimodal management of age-related muscle loss

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 Dahiliye (İç Hastalıkları) department. Book Appointment →

What is Sarcopenia Treatment?

Sarcopenia is defined by EWGSOP2 criteria as low muscle strength plus low muscle quantity or quality, with poor physical performance indicating severe disease.

Diagnosis uses handgrip strength, chair-stand test, gait speed, SARC-F questionnaire, and DXA or BIA for muscle mass quantification.

Causes include aging, inactivity, malnutrition (especially protein deficiency), chronic disease, hormonal decline, and inflammation.

Treatment is multimodal: progressive resistance exercise is the cornerstone, supported by adequate protein, vitamin D, and reversal of contributing factors.

Symptoms

Generalized muscle weakness and reduced grip strength
Difficulty rising from a chair without using arms
Slow gait speed (less than 0.8 m/s) and reduced endurance
Recurrent falls and fear of falling
Visible muscle wasting in thighs, shoulders, and calves
Functional decline in daily activities such as climbing stairs

Risk Factors

Advanced age (over 65) and physical inactivity
Chronic illness (heart failure, COPD, CKD, cancer, diabetes)
Malnutrition and inadequate protein intake
Vitamin D deficiency and low sunlight exposure
Hospitalization, bed rest, or prolonged immobilization
Hormonal changes (low testosterone, growth hormone, IGF-1)

When to See a Doctor?

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

  • Difficulty performing daily tasks or unintentional weight loss
  • Repeated falls or near-falls within six months
  • Marked weakness following hospitalization or illness
  • Slow walking speed and trouble keeping up with peers
  • Concerns about muscle wasting before elective surgery
  • Worsening function despite home exercise attempts

Treatment Methods

01
Progressive resistance training 2-3 times weekly targeting major muscle groups
02
Protein intake of 1.0-1.2 g/kg/day (1.2-1.5 g/kg in acute illness or rehabilitation)
03
Leucine-enriched essential amino acid supplementation when intake is inadequate
04
Vitamin D supplementation to reach serum 25(OH)D above 30 ng/mL
05
Treatment of underlying chronic diseases and review of polypharmacy
06
Multidisciplinary geriatric rehabilitation program with physiotherapist supervision

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Dahiliye (İç Hastalıkları) department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Dahiliye (İç Hastalıkları) 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.