Muscle matters: A proposed algorithm to guide screening, assessment and management of poor muscle health in primary care

Abstract

Background Muscle health can decline from the third decade of life, potentially leading to the disease sarcopenia, which is characterised by low skeletal muscle mass, strength, and/or impaired physical function. Sarcopenia is a serious condition associated with many chronic conditions and increased healthcare costs, emphasising the need for early detection and intervention. However, in routine clinical practice, muscle health remains poorly recognised, underappreciated and rarely considered. Objective To develop a proposed clinical muscle health monitoring and management algorithm for use by healthcare professionals in identifying patients with or at-risk for poor muscle health to support early detection and timely management. Discussion Primary care represents an ideal setting to identify and support patients with or at-risk for poor muscle health. This article outlines an easy-to-use and practical four-step muscle health algorithm (SUSPECT, ASK and/or ASSESS, PREVENT or MANAGE, REVIEW) for early identification of poor muscle health, allowing for timely prevention or intervention.