Training the non-surgical leg to improve recovery after meniscus surgery

Effects of Contralateral Strength Training on Postoperative Strength Deficits in the Immobilized Lower Extremity

Not applicable Interventional NYU Langone Health · NCT03650374

This study tests if doing strength training on the non-surgical leg right after meniscus surgery can help patients recover better and keep their strength.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment50 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 90 Years
SexAll
SponsorNYU Langone Health Academic / other
Locations1 site (New York, New York)
Trial IDNCT03650374 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This clinical trial investigates the effects of immediate postoperative strength training on the non-surgical leg of patients undergoing unilateral meniscal root repair or meniscus transplant. Participants will be randomly assigned to either a group that receives standard rehabilitation or a group that also includes strength training exercises for the contralateral leg starting from the first postoperative physical therapy session. The goal is to determine if this approach can mitigate strength loss in the immobilized leg. The exercises will involve moderate resistance and include activities such as leg presses, lunges, and step-ups.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18 and older who are scheduled for meniscal root repair or meniscus transplant and have intact lower extremities.

Not a fit: Patients with lower extremity musculoskeletal defects or systemic neuromuscular disorders may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could enhance recovery and strength in patients after meniscus surgery.

How similar studies have performed: While similar approaches have been explored, this specific intervention of immediate contralateral strength training post-surgery is relatively novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Patient is indicated for meniscal root repair
* Patient is indicated for meniscus transplant
* Patient is at least 18 years of age
* Patient is expected to survive at least 1 year beyond surgery
* Patient has intact lower extremities bilaterally
* Patient is willing to participate by complying with pre-and post-operative visit requirements
* Patient is willing and able to review and sign a study informed consent form

Exclusion Criteria:

* Lower extremity musculoskeletal defects
* Systemic neuromuscular disorders
* Failure to complete pre-operative BIDOEX strength assessment
* Failure to complete pre-operative self-assessment score intake forms

Where this trial is running

New York, New York

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions MeniscusDetachment, Current InjuryMeniscus root tear
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.