Muscle mass measured using bioelectrical impedance analysis, calf circumference and grip strength in older adults

Abstract

Objective

To determine the correlation between muscle mass, measured using bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA), with calf circumference and grip strength.

Materials and methods

Cross-sectional and observational study. Including all functional adults over 60 years of age seen in our Geriatric Clinic during the months of March 2013–February 2014. Measurements of weight, height, BMI, calf circumference, grip strength and muscle mass by BIA were made after the signature of informed consent.

Results

105 patients were evaluated, 73 women and 32 men, with a mean age of 76 years (SD ± 7.3). Muscle mass showed a mild positive correlation with calf circumference: Pearson (r = 0.31; p = 0.000) and a moderate positive correlation with grip strength: Pearson (r = 0.50; p = 0.000).

Discussion

Muscle mass by BIA has a positive correlation with calf circumference and grip strength, and is a reliable measure to assess muscle mass and physical performance in older adults in geriatric ambulatory clinics and can be used in the diagnosis of sarcopenia in Mexican patients.