A 12-week supervised exercise therapy program for young adults with a meniscal tear: Program development and feasibility study

Objective: To describe the development and feasibility of an exercise therapy program for treatment of young adults (18–40 years of age) with a meniscal tear. Methods: Researchers and experienced physical therapists developed a 12-week supervised neuromuscular and strengthening exercise therapy program based on clinical expertise and available evidence. Six patients (age range 22–39 years) considered eligible for meniscal surgery by an orthopedic surgeon underwent the program. Patients completed the Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) and evaluated the program during a semi-structured qualitative interview. Feedback from patients was included to finalize the exercise therapy program. Results: Median improvements (Range) in KOOS subscales were 15 (0–33) for Pain, 11 (−11 to 50) for Symptoms, 16 (3–37) for Function in daily living, 23 (10–45) for Function in sport and recreation, and 9 (−6 to 31) for Quality of life. The patients found the program relevant and effective with only a few short-lasting adverse events and important clinical improvements after four to ten weeks. Physical therapist supervision was considered important. No patients wanted surgery up to 6 month after the exercise therapy program. Conclusion: A neuromuscular and strengthening exercise therapy program was feasible and showed important improvement in a small group of young adults with meniscal tears.