Cookies on this website

We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. If you click 'Accept all cookies' we'll assume that you are happy to receive all cookies and you won't see this message again. If you click 'Reject all non-essential cookies' only necessary cookies providing core functionality such as security, network management, and accessibility will be enabled. Click 'Find out more' for information on how to change your cookie settings.

Osteosarcopenia is a newly described syndrome that describes the co-existence of osteoporosis and sarcopenia, two chronic musculoskeletal conditions associated with ageing. Osteoporosis, a condition of low bone mass and micro-architectural deterioration of bone, and sarcopenia, the loss of muscle mass, strength and function, often co-exist in a frail subset of the elderly population, leading to significantly worsened outcomes than seen in either condition alone. These include a greater risk of falls, fractures and institutionalization, and significant socioeconomic costs. With our ageing population, osteosarcopenia is a public health concern that will become increasingly relevant in the future. Its aetiology is multifactorial, with mechanical, biochemical, genetic and lifestyle factors all contributing to involution of the 'bone-muscle unit'. Improved understanding of the interactions between muscle and bone could facilitate the development of new therapeutic agents which target muscle and bone as one. Together with existing pharmacological, nutritional and exercise-based therapies, this should enable a more holistic approach to osteosarcopenia in the future.

Original publication

DOI

10.12968/hmed.2018.79.5.253

Type

Journal article

Journal

Br j hosp med (lond)

Publication Date

02/05/2018

Volume

79

Pages

253 - 258