Traditional PT v Internet Based PT After Total Knee Arthroscopy

Comparison of Traditional Physical Therapy to Internet-Based Physical Therapy After Knee Arthroscopy: A Prospective Randomized Controlled Trial Comparing Patient Outcomes and Satisfaction

Knee arthroscopy results in significant improvements in functional outcomes, pain relief and quality of life for patients suffering from mechanical symptoms associated with meniscal tears. Patients are able to return to their activities of daily living, occupation, or sport without significant limitations. Traditionally, patients have undergone formal physical therapy (PT) after knee arthroscopy to regain function. There is a significant cost and time commitment associated with traditional outpatient physical therapy. An internet based therapy program allows patients to perform therapy at home on their own time schedule. A recent study demonstrated that patients who undergo internet based PT after total knee arthroplasty performed as well patients receiving traditional physical therapy. These findings have not been studied in the knee arthroscopy patient population. The goal of this study is to compare traditional outpatient physical therapy rehabilitation to Internet-based rehabilitation in patients undergoing knee arthroscopy for partial meniscectomy.

The purpose of this study is to compare functional outcome, and patient satisfaction, internet-based rehabilitation program vs. standard outpatient physical therapy after unilateral knee arthroscopy for meniscal tear.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Any patient undergoing unilateral primary knee arthroscopy for meniscal tear
• Any patient 18 years or older

Exclusion Criteria:

• Patients without access to the Internet
• Post-traumatic osteoarthritis
• Patients with ligamentous injury
• Patients with full thickness cartilage defects
• Patients with osteoarthritis or inflammatory arthritis
• Revision or conversion knee arthroscopy
• Patients receiving workers compensations
• Patients discharged to a rehabilitation unit or other form of respite care such as a skilled nursing facility, acute rehabilitation center, convalescent home, long-term care facility or nursing home.