Additional Functional Exercise Training Improves Knee Recovery After Meniscus Repair: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

In 30 seconds

This prospective randomized controlled trial assessed whether functional exercise training (FET) added to conventional rehabilitation improves recovery after meniscus repair. Ninety-six patients were assigned to conventional rehabilitation alone or with FET, and all completed 6-month follow-up. At 6 months, knee range of motion was greater with FET: 134.36° ± 3.04° vs. 127.62° ± 3.66° (mean difference, 6.74°; 95% CI, 5.37-8.10; adjusted P < 0.001). Several secondary outcomes favored FET at selected assessments, but differences were not consistent across outcomes and time points.

Key findings

• At 6 months, range of motion was 134.36° ± 3.04° with FET versus 127.62° ± 3.66° with conventional rehabilitation (mean difference, 6.74°; 95% CI, 5.37-8.10; adjusted P < 0.001).
• After adjustment for multiple comparisons, IKDC scores were higher with FET at 1 and 6 months, LRS scores were higher at 1 month, and VAS pain scores were lower at both follow-ups.
• At 1 month, FET was associated with lower PGE2 and 5-HT levels and lower passive 60° position-sense error and 60° motion-sense values.
• Complication rates did not differ significantly; at 6 months, no significant group differences were found for LRS, PGE2, 5-HT, or 60° motion sense.

Why it matters

The trial suggests that adding functional exercise training to rehabilitation may improve knee mobility after meniscus repair, with a statistically significant between-group difference in range of motion at 6 months. The mixed pattern across secondary outcomes means the mobility result is the clearest signal, while broader or sustained benefits across pain, function, and sensory measures remain less certain.

What to keep in mind

The abstract notes retrospective trial registration and multiple secondary outcomes, warranting caution in interpreting secondary findings. Follow-up was limited to 6 months.