Can Ultrasound be Used as a Measure of Muscle Quality? A Validation Study Comparing Ultrasound With MRI and MRS in Older and Younger Persons.

This study aims to see if ultrasound can be used as a reliable and valid method to measure fatty infiltration, muscle thickness and muscle architecture to provide a quick, cheap and mobile alternative measure of muscle quality to MRI.The MRS and MRI images will be used to validate the ultrasound images.

Inclusion Criteria:- Age <40y or >50yrsExclusion Criteria:Significant cognitive deficits and the inability to follow directions during assessment.Neurological, neuromuscular, or musculoskeletal disorders that could impair the quality of the muscle. eg. CP, muscular dystrophy or SCIProsthesis with metalwork, eg. metal work from surgeryAneurysm clip in situNo metal work anywhere, history of metal fragments in eyes, spinal cord or brain.Previous exposure to metal flakes and metallic injury.No external implants; cochlear implant, spinal cord simulator, pacemaker or other implanted electronic devices.Non-removal hearing aidsFEMALE ONLY Not pregnantNot claustrophobic