Objective: This study aimed to determine whether FOG is related to the risk of probable sarcopenia in PD patients. Sarcopenia is probable when low muscle strength is detected.
Background: Freezing of gait (FOG) is a disabling symptom of Parkinson’s disease (PD) and may contribute to physical inactivity. Low physical activity is a risk factor for sarcopenia.
Method: Individuals with idiopathic PD were assessed with the freezing of gait questionnaire (FOG-Q) Brazilian version, SARCF questionnaire, and two functional performance tests.
Results: A total of 68 participants with PD took part in the study. Among those 41% (n= 28, Hoehn & Yahr- HY1= 10 %; HY2 and HY3= 60 %; HY4=30 %) met the criteria for probable sarcopenia. The mean age was 68.3 ± 8.8 years and mean disease duration was 9.1 ± 5.5 years. A significant correlation between the FOG-Q and the SARCF was found (rho = 0.64; p < 0.001).
Conclusion: FOG might have a role in low muscle ability. These results highlight the importance of early identification of difficulties related to PD and establish preventive and rehabilitation measures in order to avoid loss of muscle mass to improve the functionality and quality of life of this population.
To cite this abstract in AMA style:
AP. Loureiro, K. Santos, J. Souza. Association between Freezing of Gait and Probable Sarcopenia in Patients with Parkinson’s Disease [abstract]. Mov Disord. 2025; 40 (suppl 1). https://www.mdsabstracts.org/abstract/association-between-freezing-of-gait-and-probable-sarcopenia-in-patients-with-parkinsons-disease/. Accessed October 5, 2025.« Back to 2025 International Congress
MDS Abstracts - https://www.mdsabstracts.org/abstract/association-between-freezing-of-gait-and-probable-sarcopenia-in-patients-with-parkinsons-disease/