Sarcopenia - a serious issue many have never heard of…

At Flinders Osteo Clinic, we believe in treating the whole person – and that means understanding how the body works as an interconnected system. One area gaining growing attention in musculoskeletal medicine is a condition called osteosarcopenia. But what exactly is it, and why should we care?

What Is the Musculoskeletal System?

Let’s start with the basics. The musculoskeletal system is made up of your muscles, bones, joints, and tendons. These parts don’t just sit next to each other – they work together to support your body, help you move, and maintain balance. If one part is compromised (like weakened muscles), it can have a ripple effect on everything else, including your bones and joints.

Enter Osteosarcopenia: When Bone and Muscle Weakness Collide

Osteosarcopenia is a condition that combines two other well-known problems – osteoporosis (bone loss) and sarcopenia (muscle loss). On their own, each condition increases your risk of falls, fractures, and reduced independence. But together? The impact is even greater.

This condition is particularly common in older adults and is often missed because the signs – like muscle weakness, unsteady walking, and decreased bone density – can creep up gradually. However, the consequences are serious: higher risk of falls, hip fractures, and long-term disability.

Sarcopenia: More Than Just Muscle Loss

Sarcopenia isn’t just about having smaller muscles – it’s about losing muscle strength, power, and endurance. This process starts as early as your 30s and progresses as you age. It also leads to myosteatosis, which is fatty infiltration of muscle that further impairs function.

And it’s not only aging that can cause it. Conditions like diabetes, chronic illness, cancer, or long-term use of medications like steroids can accelerate sarcopenia – a form known as secondary sarcopenia.

Obesity, Bone, and Muscle – A Complex Relationship

Surprisingly, people with obesity can also suffer from a condition called sarcopenic obesity – where there’s excess fat but not enough muscle mass for the body’s size. This can lead to a dangerous trio: osteosarcopenic obesity, where obesity, muscle loss, and bone loss all occur together, increasing the risk of falls and fractures even more.

How Is Osteosarcopenia Diagnosed?

At Flinders Osteo Clinic, we focus on a functional assessment with SARC-F scores and outcome measures. However you can also use tools like DXA scans to assess bone density and muscle mass. Other techniques like bioelectrical impedance analysis, muscle strength testing, and physical performance assessments help give a complete picture.

Warning signs to look for:

• Unexplained muscle weakness or fatigue

• Loss of height or changes in posture

• Unsteady gait or frequent falls

• Difficulty getting out of a chair or climbing stairs

Why This Matters

Research shows that poor muscle strength and performance are better predictors of fracture risk and even post-fracture mortality than bone density alone. In other words, strong muscles help protect your bones – and your life.

A New Way to Think About Frailty

The idea of musculoskeletal frailty ties all this together. It’s not just about aging bones or muscles – it’s about how their combined decline impacts independence and quality of life. And it’s something we can address with early intervention.

What Can You Do?

If you’re over 50, have experienced a fall, or feel like your strength isn’t what it used to be, it’s time to get assessed. At Flinders Osteo Clinic, we offer:

• Comprehensive musculoskeletal assessments

• Fall risk evaluations

• Exercise-based treatment plans tailored to improve strength, balance, and bone health

• Diet advice to support muscle and bone function

Final Thoughts

Osteosarcopenia is a wake-up call to think differently about aging. It reminds us that strength, movement, and resilience are all deeply connected – and with the right care, we can work to keep strong.

Book your assessment today at Flinders Osteo Clinic and let’s build your strength from the inside out.