Sarcopenia: A Quick Dive There’s no denying that aging causes a host of physical and mental changes. One of the more significant of these is a decrease in muscle mass. For most people, it begins in their 30s and 40s, then jumps into high gear in their 60s. Age-related muscle mass loss happens to everyone to some extent. However, some people suffer loss of muscle mass, strength, and endurance to such a degree that it severely compromises their ability to be physically active. This condition is known as sarcopenia. Symptoms, Causes, and Effects Sarcopenia primarily stems from the effects of aging and, as such, primarily affects people 60 years or older. Certain risk factors can make it more likely that you develop sarcopenia, including the following: • A sedentary lifestyle • Chronic diseases, including diabetes and kidney disease • Inadequate protein • A decline in certain bodily functions related to building muscle People with sarcopenia lose their muscle mass more quickly than those who don’t, which leads to muscular weakness and overall frailty. This, in turn, can negatively affect your quality of life. You may… • Lose stamina more quickly • Have difficulty with mobility, including walking or climbing stairs • Have poor balance and be more likely to fall • Find daily activities more difficult Use Your Benefits Before You Lose Them! As the year comes to a close, now is the perfect time to schedule your physical therapy sessions at Gold Coast Physical Therapy. If you’ve met your deductible, your out- of-pocket costs could be significantly reduced—or even zero! Appointments are filling fast. Don’t wait! Maximize your insurance benefits before they reset on January 1st. Feel better, move better—before the year ends.
How Gold Coast Physical Therapy Helps with Sarcopenia The good news is that you can manage sarcopenia with a few simple lifestyle changes, namely regular physical activity and improved nutrition. These factors can also help prevent sarcopenia or delay its progression. However, remember that some muscle mass loss is just part of getting older. What’s not an inevitable part of aging, however, is losing mobility and independence. Our physical therapists can help keep you active well into old age!
Patient Success Spotlight
“I am 74 years of age and came in with a recurrence of very limiting back pain and sciatica. I just completed 29 PT sessions at this facility (Royal Palm Beach) and I am impressed beyond all expectation based on prior PT experiences. The staff are all welcoming and highly professional. I especially want to thank my therapist, Alex. I have to say he is uncommonly knowledgeable, patient, motivating, warm, and friendly. He always took the time to explain procedures and answer all my questions. The best part for me was he knew just when to push me past my comfort zone and when to choose less challenging interventions. The goal was not just for pain relief but for muscle stretching and strengthening. Keeping up exercises at home was also an important part of the treatment. These methods worked like a charm for me and I am in so much better shape than when I started and even stronger than I have been since years past. I will always be grateful. Thanks!” - Paula
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