Effects of exercise on knee cartilage and function in people with meniscus tears
The Efficacy of Progressive Resistance Exercises Versus Aerobic Exercises on Cartilage Morphology and Physical Function in Patients With Degenerative Meniscus Tear: A Randomized Controlled Trial
This study tests whether progressive resistance exercises or aerobic exercises can improve knee cartilage health and function in people aged 35-55 with meniscus tears.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 50 (estimated) |
| Ages | 35 Years to 55 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Jordan University of Science and Technology Academic / other |
| Locations | 2 sites (Ar Ramtha and 1 other locations) |
| Trial ID | NCT06532851 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
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.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are individuals aged 35-55 with symptomatic degenerative medial meniscus tears but without radiographic evidence of knee osteoarthritis.
Not a fit: Patients with radiographic evidence of osteoarthritis or those requiring surgical intervention for their meniscus injury may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved treatment strategies for individuals at risk of knee osteoarthritis, enhancing their cartilage health and physical function.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown positive outcomes with exercise interventions for knee osteoarthritis, but this specific approach focusing on early cartilage degeneration is relatively novel.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
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 this trial is running
Ar Ramtha and 1 other locations
- King Abdullah University Hospital — Ar Ramtha, Jordan (Recruiting)
- Jordan University of Science and Technology — Irbid, Jordan (Recruiting)
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.