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Rehabilitation following arthroscopic meniscectomy
1School of Physical and Occupational Therapy, McGill University, Montréal, Queébec, Canada.
Sports Medicine (Auckland, N.Z.)
|November 1, 1995
Summary
Meniscal injuries are common in athletes. While physiotherapy may aid muscle strength recovery after arthroscopic meniscectomy, its necessity depends on preoperative deficits, especially for non-professional athletes.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Sports Medicine
- Rehabilitation Science
Background:
- Meniscal injuries are the most common athletic injuries, accounting for over 30% of all sports-related lesions.
- Treatment has shifted towards partial meniscectomies or repairs as the standard of care for most meniscal tears.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the necessity and efficacy of physiotherapy following arthroscopic meniscectomy.
- To determine if physiotherapy accelerates recovery compared to natural healing.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on post-arthroscopic meniscectomy rehabilitation protocols.
- Analysis of studies investigating the impact of physiotherapy on recovery timelines and muscle strength.
Main Results:
- Patients typically regain function rapidly after arthroscopic meniscectomy, with return to competition in 3-4 weeks.
- Physiotherapy may accelerate muscle strength recovery to preoperative levels, particularly if deficits exist pre-surgery.
- For patients without preoperative deficits and uncomplicated recovery, physiotherapy might not be essential, barring professional athletes seeking faster return.
Conclusions:
- The requirement for physiotherapy post-arthroscopic meniscectomy is contingent on individual patient factors, notably preoperative muscle strength.
- Pain and swelling management are crucial for optimal recovery, potentially reducing the need for formal physiotherapy in some cases.
- Professional athletes may benefit from physiotherapy to expedite return to peak performance levels.