What should you know about severe sarcopenia?

Sarcopenia is loss of muscle strength and muscle mass, often developing gradually with ageing, inactivity, illness, poor nutrition, or a combination of factors. A severe form affects physical performance and daily tasks such as rising from a chair, climbing steps, carrying objects, or walking safely. Muscle weakness and difficulty walking may occur, while muscle cramps can have several other causes. Assessment may include a history, strength testing, walking or chair-rise tasks, and measures of muscle quantity when appropriate.

Arrange an appointment with a doctor or physiotherapist for a functional assessment. Treatment commonly combines progressive resistance work, balance practice, adequate protein and overall nutrition, and review of medicines or illnesses that may worsen weakness. Begin at a safe level and increase the challenge gradually under supervision. Exercise Therapy and Strength Training Rehabilitation can help structure this process; a Falls Prevention Programme is useful when balance, vision, home hazards, or previous falls are concerns.

Seek urgent medical help for sudden weakness, a new inability to stand or walk, fainting, confusion, chest pain, severe breathlessness, or a fall causing significant pain or injury. Book a clinical review soon if weakness is progressing, walking has become less safe, everyday tasks are slipping, appetite has fallen, or weight is unintentionally changing.

Ask which tests will measure strength and function, whether a medicine or illness may be contributing, what exercise intensity is safe, how nutrition should be adjusted, and how progress will be reviewed.