Isokinetic eccentric training is more effective than constant load eccentric training on the quadriceps rehabilitation following partial meniscectomy: A randomized clinical trial

Abstract

ObjectivesTo compare the effects of conventional (constant load) eccentric training and isokinetic eccentric training on quadriceps muscle mass, strength and functionality of recreational athletes following partial meniscectomy. DesignRandomized controlled trial. SettingXXXX, Brazil. Participants32 recreational male athletes (∼27 years old) who underwent partial meniscectomy performed a 6-week quadriceps strength training program in one of the experimental groups: conventional group (CG) or icokinetic group (IG). Main outcome measuresQuadriceps muscle mass, strength, and patients’ objective and self-reported function. ResultsBoth groups enhanced muscle mass, strength and functionality outcomes. The IG presented higher increases than CG for muscle mass (ES = 0.99–1.41), strength (ES = 1.48–2.35), and Lysholm score (ES = 1.0). The magnitude-based inference supports that results ‘very likely’ or ‘almost certainly’ favour IG compared to CG for all outcomes, except for the single leg hop test (i.e., between-group similar change). ConclusionAfter partial meniscectomy, isokinetic eccentric training is more effective than conventional eccentric training to restore quadriceps muscle mass, strength, and functional capacity.