Indian Journal of Clinical Anatomy and Physiology · Aug 17, 2026

Emerging physiotherapy interventions for sarcopenia: A comprehensive evidence review

By Rastogi N

Background: Sarcopenia is a progressive and generalized skeletal muscle disorder associated with aging and characterized by declines in muscle mass, muscle strength, and physical performance. It is strongly associated with frailty, falls, disability, hospitalization, reduced quality of life, and increased mortality among older adults. Physiotherapy interventions are considered a cornerstone in the non-pharmacological management of sarcopenia.Objective: This systematic review aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of physiotherapy interventions in the management of sarcopenia and to summarize current evidence regarding exercise-based rehabilitation strategies for improving muscle strength, physical performance, and functional independence in older adults.Materials and Methods: A systematic search of electronic databases including PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar was conducted to identify relevant studies published on physiotherapy interventions for sarcopenia. Randomized controlled trials, clinical trials, and systematic reviews evaluating exercise-based rehabilitation strategies were included. Interventions analyzed included resistance training, aerobic exercise, multicomponent exercise programs, balance and functional training, flexibility exercises, and whole-body vibration therapy. Data regarding intervention protocols, outcome measures, and therapeutic effectiveness were extracted and critically analyzed.Results: Evidence from included studies consistently demonstrated that progressive resistance training was the most effective physiotherapy intervention for improving muscle strength, muscle mass, and functional capacity in individuals with sarcopenia. Multicomponent exercise programs combining strength, balance, endurance, and flexibility exercises showed superior benefits in overall physical performance and functional independence. Aerobic exercise contributed to improved cardiovascular fitness and metabolic health, while balance and functional training reduced fall risk and enhanced postural stability. Whole-body vibration therapy emerged as a promising adjunctive intervention; however, evidence supporting its long-term effectiveness remains limited. Despite positive findings, substantial heterogeneity existed among studies regarding diagnostic criteria, exercise protocols, duration of interventions, and outcome measures.Conclusion: Physiotherapy interventions play a critical role in the multidisciplinary management of sarcopenia and significantly improve muscle strength, mobility, balance, and quality of life among older adults. Progressive resistance training remains the most evidence-based intervention, while multicomponent rehabilitation programs appear to provide the most comprehensive functional benefits. Future research should focus on standardized diagnostic criteria, individualized rehabilitation approaches, integration of nutritional support, and long-term follow-up studies to establish optimized clinical guidelines for sarcopenia management.

doi.org/10.18231/j.ijcap.44271.1786956855 Open access Interventions