Sarcopenia
Also called Age-related muscle loss
Sarcopenia is the gradual loss of muscle mass, strength and physical performance that happens with age. It affects the musculoskeletal system and can make everyday tasks such as climbing stairs or getting out of a chair harder.
Over time, both the size and the number of muscle fibers decrease, and the body becomes less efficient at making the protein muscles need to grow and repair. Changes in hormones, including testosterone and IGF-1 (insulin-like growth factor 1), also play a part.
Why it matters after 45
Aging is the most common risk factor, and the pace of muscle loss tends to pick up with the years. Sarcopenia can raise the risk of falls and fractures, and because loss of muscle mass reduces strength and endurance, it often shows up first as tiring more easily. It also matters for weight: weight loss, whether intentional or not, can contribute to sarcopenia, which is why muscle comes up whenever weight-loss medicines are discussed.
Where it comes up
Related terms
References
- Cleveland Clinic. Sarcopenia. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/23167-sarcopenia
- MedlinePlus. Aging Changes in the Bones, Muscles, and Joints. U.S. National Library of Medicine. https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/004015.htm
Definitions here are educational and are not medical advice. They explain what a term means; the pages linked above cover what it means for you, and a clinician reviews your own results. Editorial & medical review policy · All glossary terms