Effects of exercise on knee cartilage and function in people with meniscus tears

Is this trial a fit for you?

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This randomized controlled trial evaluates the effectiveness of progressive resistance exercises (PRE) compared to aerobic exercises on cartilage health and physical function in individuals aged 35-55 with degenerative meniscus tears. A total of 54 participants will be randomly assigned to one of three groups: PRE, aerobic exercise, or a control group receiving standard care. The study will utilize advanced MRI T2 mapping to assess changes in cartilage composition, alongside clinical outcome measures related to pain and physical function. Additionally, this pilot study aims to identify feasibility issues for recruitment and retention for a larger trial.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Are between 35 and 55 years of age.
2. Have a symptomatic degenerative medial meniscus tear as evidenced by:

   * Presence of medial knee pain.
   * Medial joint line tenderness.
   * Pain and limited motion when attempting to perform a full squat and
   * Increased intra-meniscal signal on at least 2 consecutive MRI slices and
3. Have clearance from their personal physician to participate in an exercise program.

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Radiographic evidence of OA (K-L grade 2 or above).
2. A repairable meniscus injury (longitudinal tear in the outer 1/3 of the meniscus).
3. A meniscus injury that requires meniscectomy (locked knee).
4. Prior or current ligament injury or surgery of the involved knee.
5. Prior or current injury or surgery to contra-lateral knee.
6. Pathological ligamentous laxity upon examination of the knee
7. An inflammatory arthritic condition or
8. Any injury or condition involving the lower extremities that affects their ability to walk.

Because participation in this study requires undergoing MRI, subjects will be excluded if they:

1. If female, pregnant at the time of enrollment.
2. Had prior surgery for an aneurysm; any medical illness that may interfere with the patient's general fitness or exercise capability.
3. Had any contraindication with MRI.
4. Had surgery within the past two months.
5. Have a cardiac pacemaker.

Where it's running

• King Abdullah University Hospital
  Ar Ramtha, Jordan Recruiting
• Jordan University of Science and Technology
  Irbid, Jordan Recruiting

Similar studies

Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.

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How to take part

1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.