Using high-definition electromyography to diagnose sarcopenia in older adults

HD-sEMG Markers of Sarcopenia

Not applicable Interventional Assistance Publique - Hôpitaux de Paris · NCT04987814

This study is testing a new way to diagnose muscle loss in older adults using a special technology to see if it can help identify those who may have sarcopenia.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment175 (estimated)
Ages75 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorAssistance Publique - Hôpitaux de Paris Academic / other
Locations6 sites (Ivry-sur-Seine and 5 other locations)
Trial IDNCT04987814 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This pilot project aims to explore the use of high-definition surface electromyography (HD-sEMG) technology for diagnosing sarcopenia, a condition characterized by the loss of muscle mass and function in older adults. The study will include 50 participants aged 75 and over who are hospitalized and suspected of having sarcopenia, as indicated by a score of 4 or higher on the SARC-F screening questionnaire. Participants will undergo assessments of body composition using dual X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) and muscular strength evaluations. The study is designed to develop a new diagnostic method that combines both morphological and functional assessments of skeletal muscle.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are individuals aged 75 years and older who are hospitalized and suspected of having sarcopenia.

Not a fit: Patients with a BMI of 30 kg/m2 or higher, untreated/unbalanced endocrinological conditions, or severe cognitive disorders are unlikely to benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to a more accurate and accessible method for diagnosing sarcopenia, improving patient outcomes and management.

How similar studies have performed: While the use of HD-sEMG for diagnosing sarcopenia is a novel approach, similar studies have shown promise in using advanced imaging and functional assessments for muscle evaluation.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Patient aged 75 years and over
* Score ≥4 on the SARC-F screening questionnaire
* Enrolled in a social security plan (no AME)
* Informed and consenting patient

Exclusion Criteria:

* BMI ≥30 kg/m2
* Untreated/unbalanced endocrinological pathology
* Myopathy
* Inflammatory or autoimmune pathology
* Severe psychiatric pathology or severe cognitive disorders that do not allow the performance of examinations
* Patients who are dependent for all acts of daily life
* Patients with a very short life expectancy
* Recent fracture or trauma of the lower limbs preventing dynamic measurement of HD-sEMG recording
* Bilateral hip prosthesis
* Skin problem that may interfere with the recording of surface EMG activity
* Patient under guardianship / curatorship

Where this trial is running

Ivry-sur-Seine and 5 other locations

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions SarcopeniaHigh definition surface electromyographyMuscleBiphotonic X-ray absorptiometryDual x-ray absorptiometry
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.