As society enters a super-aged era, the prevalence of sarcopenia—the age-related decline in muscle mass, strength, and physical function—is rising significantly. However, a new Korean study suggests that a simple ultrasound scan of the thigh muscles could be a highly effective way to diagnose the condition. Professor Lee Byung-chan of the Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation at Chung-Ang University Hospital conducted thigh ultrasound examinations on 145 women aged 65 and older living in the community. After analyzing eight sarcopenia-related indicators, the research team found that most of the measured metrics were highly useful for diagnosis.
The study highlighted quadriceps femoris thickness (the muscle group at the front of the thigh), the cross-sectional area of the rectus femoris, and the thickness of the vastus lateralis as primary predictive indicators. Notably, the vastus lateralis has received relatively little attention in previous research, but this study suggests it may provide an essential clue for future diagnostic protocols. The rectus femoris and vastus lateralis are vital components of the quadriceps, used constantly in daily activities like walking and climbing stairs. Unfortunately, they are also among the first muscle groups to deteriorate with age. To combat this decline, experts recommend consistent resistance exercises—such as squats, seated knee extensions, and walking—paired with a diet rich in protein-heavy foods like eggs, tofu, fish, and chicken breast.
Currently, sarcopenia is primarily diagnosed using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA), which measures muscle and bone density via X-rays, or bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA), which uses weak electrical currents to estimate body composition. However, as the medical field shifts toward imaging-based assessments like CT, MRI, and ultrasound, research in these areas has become increasingly active. The advancement of portable ultrasound technology is expected to revolutionize screening, moving diagnosis beyond the hospital and into community settings.
Professor Lee Byung-chan noted that this study is significant because it identifies specific ultrasound indicators that can be applied directly to clinical practice, and he plans to refine these diagnostic criteria further through additional studies involving more diverse populations. Meanwhile, the research recently gained academic recognition, receiving the "Best Oral Presentation Award" at the 2026 Spring Scientific Meeting of the Korean Academy of Geriatric Rehabilitation Medicine on March 14.
