Comparing Progressive Resistance and Aerobic Exercises for Cartilage Health and Function in Adults with Degenerative Meniscus Tears

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating the effects of progressive resistance exercises PRE versus aerobic exercises on cartilage health and physical function in adults aged 35 to 55 who have degenerative meniscus tears without clear signs of knee osteoarthritis. This randomized controlled trial aims to understand how these exercise types impact cartilage composition using advanced MRI techniques and to assess clinical outcomes such as pain and disability. The study also seeks to explore recruitment and retention feasibility for a larger future trial. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of three groups PRE focusing on strengthening the quadriceps muscles using the Daily Adjustable Progressive Resistance Exercise DAPRE technique aerobic exercise involving stationary bike sessions to improve cardiovascular fitness and knee mobility or a control group receiving standard care with general strength and balance exercises. Each group will follow a supervised 3-month exercise program. During the study, participants will undergo MRI scans at baseline and after 3 months to measure cartilage changes using T2 mapping. Clinical outcomes will be tracked through patient-reported scores and performance tests including single-leg hop, single-leg squat, sit-to-stand, step-up, and treadmill assessments. Follow-ups will continue over several months and years to observe long-term effects, with researchers monitoring adherence, recruitment, and retention throughout the trial.

The Effect of Therapeutic Exercise on Cartilage Morphology and Physical Function for Individuals at High Risk of Knee Osteoarthritis