Background: Sarcopenia refers to a decrease in functional ability due to the loss of skeletal muscle. Sarcopenia can be prevented, delayed, and treated more effectively the sooner the intervention, and muscle mass and strength can be effectively increased through physical exercise and adequate protein intake. Because symptoms of sarcopenia do not appear in the early stages, awareness among healthcare professionals is essential for early diagnosis and subsequent intervention. Objectives: The purpose of this study was to develop sarcopenia questionnaire items and investigate additional factors in Korean clinical practice. Design: Qualitative research. Methods: A qualitative survey was conducted targeting eight physical therapists affiliated with the sarcopenia associations or physical therapists with extensive clinical experience. A preliminary sarcopenia questionnaire and a qualitative survey questionnaire created by the researchers were sent to the participants together. All questions were open-ended. Results: Through a qualitative survey, themes were derived, including barriers to equipment and healthcare reimbursement, the need for awareness of sarcopenia, and improvement of survey questions. Conclusion: The diagnosis and treatment of sarcopenia requires efforts not only from physical therapists, but also from patients, government, and professional societies.

INTRODUCTION
SUBJECTS AND METHODS
    Procedure
    Instrument
    Participant
    Data analysis
RESULTS
    General characteristics of participants
    Qualitative analysis findings
DISCUSSION
CONCLUSION
REFERENCES

• Jaehyun Lim(PT, MS, Department of Physical Therapy, Nambu University, Gwangju, Republic of Korea, Physical Therapy Room, Wise Rehabilitation Hospital, Gwangju, Republic of Korea)
• Ahyoung Choi(PT, PhD, Prof., Department of Rehabilitation, Songwon University, Gwangju, Republic of Korea)
• Byeonggeun Kim(PT, PhD, Prof., Department of Physical Therapy, Nambu University, Gwangju, Republic of Korea) Corresponding author