Which specialist treats sarcopenia?

Sarcopenia refers to loss of muscle strength and muscle performance, sometimes alongside reduced muscle mass. A clinician reviews walking, chair transfers, falls, nutrition, weight change, medicines and conditions that may reduce activity. Functional testing and selected measurements help determine what support is appropriate.

A physiotherapist can build a progressive strengthening and balance plan. Exercise therapy may focus on safe resistance, transfers and endurance. A falls prevention programme can address footwear, home hazards and confidence. Strength training rehabilitation may be useful when weakness is limiting everyday tasks.

Note changes in walking speed, stair use, lifting, rising from a chair, muscle cramps and recent falls. Bring a medicine list and mention appetite, swallowing, dental problems or difficulty preparing meals. A primary-care doctor can begin the assessment and refer to a geriatric or rehabilitation service.

Do not start demanding strength exercises without guidance if you are unsteady, recently unwell or recovering from an injury. Short, regular movement may be safer than prolonged inactivity, but the right intensity depends on balance, joints, heart and lung health.

Arrange an assessment when muscle weakness, difficulty walking or repeated falls are affecting independence. Seek urgent care after a fall with severe pain, head injury or inability to stand. Sudden weakness on one side, new speech trouble, chest pain, severe breathlessness or confusion requires emergency attention rather than routine rehabilitation.

Could another illness or medicine be contributing to my weakness? Which tests or functional measures are useful? What exercise intensity is safe? Would a falls prevention programme help? Should I see a dietitian, geriatrician or rehabilitation physician?