Water-Based vs. Land-Based Rehabilitation After Arthroscopic Partial Meniscectomy in Middle-Aged Active Patients with a Degenerative Meniscal Tear: A Randomized, Controlled Study

In this study, we aimed to determine and compare the benefits of water-based exercise (WBE) and land-based exercise (LBE) on pain, functionality, and quality of life after arthroscopic partial meniscectomy (APM). Middle-aged (35-50), active 30 patients having APM for a degenerative meniscal tear randomized into LBE (n=15) and WBE (n=15) groups. The pain level (visual analogue scale [VAS]), isokinetic muscle strength, quality of life (Short Form-36 [SF-36]), and function level (single-leg hop test and Lysholm questionnaire) were evaluated prior to treatment and at follow-up visits at the fourth and eighth week after surgery. The exercise sessions were conducted 3 times a week for 4 weeks in both groups.

Inclusion Criteria: The inclusion criteria comprised a non-locked painful knee of more than 1 month, age between 35-50 years, a clinical history and examination compatible with degenerative meniscus, positive findings of a degenerative meniscal tear visible with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), no response to nonoperative treatment of at least 3 months after onset of symptoms, and no evidence of advanced osteoarthritis (OA) on X-rays or MRI

Exclusion Criteria: The exclusion criteria employed were advanced knee OA, systemic inflammatory disease, a concurrent tear of posterior cruciate ligament, a concurrent collateral ligament repair, other problems causing knee pain (e.g., hip and ankle pathologies), a history of cardiopulmonary disease that could limit isokinetic and functional testing, an unstable medical condition, a serious cognitive deficit, a psychiatric problem, no capacity for independent walking and standing, an open wound on the skin, or pregnancy