A clinician's guide to the management of geriatric musculoskeletal disease: Part 2 – Sarcopenia

Abstract

Sarcopenia, the decrease of muscle mass and performance, is a growing health concern in the face of an ageing population. Sarcopenia is an important contributor to falls and fall related injury in older adults, and allied health musculoskeletal clinicians are well placed to play a key role in the prevention, diagnosis, and management of the disease. This masterclass aims to provide clinical confidence for musculoskeletal allied health professionals working with older adults to incorporate management of sarcopenia into their practice. Specifically it will focus on diagnosis of disease, appropriate and safe therapeutic exercise prescription, as well as appropriate referral for these patients. We hope that equipping clinicians with skills and knowledge of sarcopenia directly translates into more effective prevention and management of disease, and improved patient outcomes in older age.