Characteristics and Predictors of Sarcopenia in Patients with Stroke: A Cross-Sectional Study

• Published in: Journal of International Academy of Physical Therapy Research Vol. 15; no. 3; pp. 3205 - 3210
• Main Authors: Park, Chibok, Kim, Soyeong, Cho, Woonsu, Kim, Byeonggeun
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: 국제물리치료연구학회 30.09.2024
• Subjects: 물리치료학; Sarcopenia; Stroke; Cognitive function; Body weight
• ISSN: 2092-8475; 2714-0148
• DOI: 10.20540/JIAPTR.2024.15.3.3205

Background: Sarcopenia, characterized by a decrease in physical performance, muscle mass, and strength, is a common complication in patients with stroke, significantly impacting their rehabilitation and quality of life. Objectives: This study aimed to analyze the clinical characteristics associated with sarcopenia in patients with stroke and to identify factors that influence its occurrence. Design: A cross-sectional study. Methods: Data were collected using electronic medical records and assessments, including Korean version of mini-mental state examination (MMSE-K), manual muscle testing, berg balance scale (BBS), functional ambulation category (FAC), and modified barthel index. Sarcopenia was diagnosed based on the Asian working group for sarcopenia 2019 guidelines. Descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, independent t-tests, and logistic regression analyses were used. Results: Of the 82 patients with stroke included in this study, 46 were found to have sarcopenia. Sarcopenic patients had significantly lower body weight, cognitive function (MMSE-K), balance (BBS), walking ability (FAC), and daily living activities (MBI) scores compared to non-sarcopenic patients (P<.05). Logistic regression identified body weight (OR=.852, P=<.001) and cognitive function (OR=.897, P=.035) as significant predictors of sarcopenia. Conclusion: Body weight and cognitive function are crucial in predicting sarcopenia in patients with stroke. These findings suggest the importance of managing body weight and cognitive function to prevent sarcopenia and improve rehabilitation outcomes.