EARLY ONSET GENU OSTEOARTHRITIS IN MALE RECREATIONAL ATLET WITH HISTORY OF ANTERIOR CRUCIATE LIGAMENT  AND MENISCUS TEAR: AN EVIDENCE BASED CASE REPORT

Gusti Ayu Sinta Deasy Andani; Nora Sutarina

doi:10.20884/1.mandala.2026.19.2.21909

Gusti Ayu Sinta Deasy Andani Sports Medicine Study Program, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Indonesia
Nora Sutarina Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Jenderal Achmad Yani, Kota Cimahi, Indonesia

DOI: https://doi.org/10.20884/1.mandala.2026.19.2.21909

Abstract

Introduction: Post-traumatic osteoarthritis (PTOA) is a long-term complication of knee injuries, particularly anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and meniscal tears. This evidence-based case report aimed to analyze the factors contributing to early-onset genu osteoarthritis in a male recreational athlete based on current scientific evidence. Case Presentation: A 35-year-old man with a history of right knee injury during recreational soccer experienced persistent pain and restricted range of motion. Radiographs revealed grade II right knee osteoarthritis, while magnetic resonance imaging demonstrated ACL and medial and lateral meniscal tears. The patient had grade I obesity, lower-extremity malalignment, quadriceps and hip abductor muscle weakness, and a history of incomplete rehabilitation. Methods: The clinical question was formulated using the PICO framework. Evidence was searched in PubMed, Cochrane, and Scopus databases using a PRISMA-based screening process. Eligible studies included English-language randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and systematic reviews, with or without meta-analysis, published within the previous five years. Results: Integration of the clinical findings and scientific evidence indicated that previous ACL and meniscal injuries, mechanical instability, lower-extremity kinetic chain dysfunction, obesity, and discontinuous rehabilitation contributed to PTOA progression. The interaction of these factors may increase abnormal joint loading and accelerate articular cartilage degeneration. Conclusion: This case illustrates early-onset post-traumatic genu osteoarthritis involving interacting structural, biomechanical, and metabolic risk factors. Management should include structured neuromuscular rehabilitation, weight management, and sports activity modification to optimize knee function and reduce the risk of degenerative progression.

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