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

Robin M Daly; David Scott; Linda Govan; Anita Muñoz; Anthony Villani; Simon Willcock

doi:10.31128/AJGP-06-25-7703

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

Journal article

Peer reviewed

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

Robin M Daly, David Scott, Linda Govan, Anita Muñoz, Anthony Villani and Simon Willcock

Australian Journal of General Practice, Vol.55(6), pp.369-373

2026

DOI: https://doi.org/10.31128/AJGP-06-25-7703

PMID: 42242307

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https://www1.racgp.org.au/ajgp/2026/june/muscle-mattersView

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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.

Details

Title: Muscle matters: A proposed algorithm to guide screening, assessment and management of poor muscle health in primary care
Authors: Robin M Daly (Corresponding Author) - Deakin University
David Scott - Deakin University
Linda Govan - Australian Primary Health Care Nurses Association
Anita Muñoz - Royal Australian College of General Practitioners
Anthony Villani - University of the Sunshine Coast
Simon Willcock - Macquarie University
Publication details: Australian Journal of General Practice, Vol.55(6), pp.369-373
Publisher: Royal Australian College of General Practitioners
Date published: 2026
DOI: 10.31128/AJGP-06-25-7703
ISSN: 2208-7958
PMID: 42242307
Organisation Unit: Healthy Ageing Research Cluster; School of Health - Nutrition & Dietetics
Language: English
Record Identifier: 991240863702621
Output Type: Journal article

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