Longitudinal study of risk factors for decreased cross-sectional area of psoas major and paraspinal muscle in 1849 individuals

This 10-year retrospective observational study investigated longitudinal losses in psoas major and paraspinal muscle area in 1849 healthy individuals (1690 male, 159 female) screened using computed tomography. Logistic regression analysis revealed significant decreases in psoas major and paraspinal muscle area at 10 years relative to the baseline area regardless of age or sex, starting at 30 years of age. Only aging [≥ 50 s (odds ratio [OR]: 1.72; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.05–2.84; p = 0.03) and ≥ 60 s (OR: 2.67; 95% CI 1.55–4.60; p 45 min daily (Calories = METs (walking: 3.0) × duration of time (h) × weight (60 kg) × 1.05) can reduce paraspinal muscle loss, which may in turn decrease the risk of falls, low-back pain, and sarcopenia.