This cross-sectional study aims to investigate the relationship between MRI-based paraspinal muscle fatty degeneration, bone mineral density (BMD), and sarcopenia parameters in postmenopausal women. A total of 100 participants aged 60-80 years will be included. Lumbar paraspinal fatty infiltration will be evaluated both qualitatively using the Goutallier classification and quantitatively using ImageJ software to calculate muscle area, fat area, fat ratio, and functional muscle area.
BMD and T-scores of the lumbar spine (L1-L4) and femoral neck will be measured using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA). Sarcopenia will be diagnosed based on EWGSOP2 criteria, including muscle mass (assessed by bioelectrical impedance analysis), handgrip strength, and physical performance tests (gait speed, SPPB, TUGT, and 5STS). Sarcopenia-specific quality of life will be assessed using the Sarcopenia Quality of Life Questionnaire (SarQoL-TR).
The study aims to clarify the associations among paraspinal muscle quality, bone health, and sarcopenia, providing a comprehensive understanding of muscle-bone interactions in postmenopausal women. Findings may support the use of paraspinal muscle evaluation as a complementary marker in the management of sarcopenia and osteoporosis.
Who can participate
Age range
60 Years – 80 Years
Sex
FEMALE
See this in plain English?
AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.
Inclusion Criteria:
* Female participants aged 60-80 years
* Postmenopausal status
* Lumbar MRI and DXA scan performed within the past six months
* Willingness to participate and ability to provide written informed consent
Exclusion Criteria:
* History of lumbar spine surgery (e.g., laminectomy, stabilization)
* Pfirrmann grade ≥4 lumbar disc degeneration on MRI¹³
* Secondary osteoporosis or Paget's disease
* Use of walking aids or mobility restrictions
* Neurological or systemic disorders affecting movement, including:
* Parkinson's disease
* Stroke
* Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)
* Central or peripheral vertigo
* Severe immobility or inability to complete performance tests
* Presence of a hip prosthesis
Questions worth asking your doctor
Bring these to your next appointment. They're a starting point for a shared conversation — not a sign you qualify or a recommendation to enrol.
1Based on my diagnosis and history, is this trial worth exploring for me — or is there a standard treatment we should try first?
2What does this trial's phase tell us about how much is already known about its safety and benefit?
3What would taking part actually involve for me — visits, tests, time, and travel?
4What are the known and possible risks or side effects I should weigh, and how would they be monitored?
5If this trial isn't the right fit, what other options or trials would you suggest I look into?
Generated to help you prepare — always confirm anything about your own eligibility and care with the study team and your doctor.
Questions for the trial coordinator
The trial coordinator is the person who runs the study day to day. These cover the practical side — logistics, costs, and what taking part would actually mean for your life. The study team confirms whether you meet the criteria; these are questions to ask, not a sign you qualify.
1What does taking part actually involve week to week — how many visits, where, and how long does each one take?
2What costs are covered by the study, and what might I have to pay for myself, including travel, parking, or time off work?
3What happens during screening, and what happens if the study team confirms I don't meet the criteria after those tests?
4Who pays for the scans, blood work, and other tests the trial requires — the study, my insurance, or me?
5How will being in the trial affect my regular care, and will my own doctor stay informed and involved?
6Can I leave the trial at any point if I change my mind, and what would happen to my care if I do?
A starting point for the conversation — always confirm anything about your own eligibility, costs, and care with the study team and your doctor.