Why Osteosarcopenia Matters: Clinical and Investigative Implications

BACKGROUND: Osteosarcopenia, the combination of osteoporosis and sarcopenia, is a geriatric syndrome linked to functional decline, falls, and fragility fractures. The interaction among bone, muscle, and their shared pathophysiology is driven by mechanical, metabolic, and hormonal factors. With global population aging and increasing healthcare demands, early detection of osteosarcopenia has become essential. METHODS: This narrative review summarizes current evidence on the epidemiology, pathophysiology, clinical findings, diagnosis, and treatment of osteosarcopenia, based on international consensus guidelines, large-scale population cohorts, interventional studies, and translational research. RESULTS: The occurrence of osteosarcopenia reflects the combined impact of low bone mineral density (BMD), loss of muscle mass and strength, and age-related metabolic changes such as chronic inflammation, lipotoxicity, and disruptions in tryptophan (TRP) metabolism. Diagnostic evaluation requires combining bone assessment through Dual-energy X-ray Absorptiometry with functional and structural evaluations of sarcopenia, using criteria established by the European and global consensus on Sarcopenia. Management includes established pharmacological therapies for osteoporosis, while for sarcopenia, to date, it is mainly based on resistance exercise and adequate protein intake. Supplementation with protein, leucine, vitamin D, calcium, and creatine may further enhance outcomes. Promising emerging strategies include hormonal modulators, anti-inflammatory agents, metabolic pathway-oriented therapies, and cell-based interventions. CONCLUSIONS: Osteosarcopenia significantly raises the risk of falls, fractures, disability, and death. Effective management requires a comprehensive treatment approach that targets both bone and muscle decline. Further research is necessary to refine diagnostic criteria and assess the success of combined interventions through clinical trials.