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Sarcopenia--mechanisms and treatments
Terry E Jones1, Katherine W Stephenson, Julia G King
1Department of Physical Therapy, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC 27858, USA. joneste@ecu.edu
Journal of Geriatric Physical Therapy (2001)
|December 31, 2009
Summary
Sarcopenia, an age-related muscle loss, leads to decreased strength and function. Resistance training is the most effective and safe intervention for maintaining or recovering muscle mass and strength in aging adults.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology and Exercise Physiology
Background:
- Sarcopenia is a natural consequence of aging, characterized by muscle atrophy.
- This condition leads to reduced muscle strength and functional deficits in older adults.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the mechanisms underlying sarcopenia.
- To examine the impact of aging on muscle composition and function.
- To evaluate interventions for sarcopenia, including pharmaceuticals, supplements, and exercise.
Main Methods:
- A literature search was conducted on PubMed.
- Keywords included sarcopenia, aging, muscle mass, muscle strength, myostatin, and resistance training.
Main Results:
- Sarcopenia results from multiple factors like neuron loss, hormonal changes, inflammation, and nutrition.
- Pharmaceutical and nutritional supplement interventions show limited efficacy and potential risks.
- Resistance training is safe and highly effective for improving muscle mass and strength in older adults.
Conclusions:
- Sarcopenia is a common, multifactorial condition in aging adults.
- Resistance training is the optimal intervention for mitigating age-related muscle loss and functional decline.
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