Abstract des Autors

Aim of the study was to assess the effects in humans of early (2 wk) and delayed (6 wk) isokinetic strength training in the recovery of muscle strength after an arthroscopic partial meniscectomy. Peak torque developed in the quadriceps and hamstrings and torque developed at a knee angle of 1.05 rad were evaluated pre-operatively (pre-op), and 2, 6, and 10 wk post-operatively (post-op) isokinetically. Fatigue characteristics of the muscles were evaluated by having the subject perform 15 maximal contractions at 3.14 rad/s. Training was done on the same device (3 times/wk for 1-2 mo), beginning either 2 or 6 wk post-op. Torques developed by knee flexors and extensors were significantly smaller 2 wk post-op than pre-op, at all velovities tested. Torques developed in the quadriceps recovered to their pre-op values by 6 wk, and further gained significantly in strength from 6 to 10 wk. Quadriceps torques remained weaker than the contralateral side at 10 wk. Hamstrings torques were either higher or similar to pre-op values by 6 wk, and demonstrated increases from 6 to 10 wk post-op at 1.05 and 4.19 rad/s only. Total work and average power developed by the quadriceps and hamstrings during the fatigue protocol changed with time in a similar manner to torque. However, contrary to quadriceps torque, these indices of fatigue were fully recovered by wk 10. In conclusion, training in early stages after arthroscopic meniscectomy does not improve the recovery of strength and the importance of timing of training stimulus is suggested.