Effects of Inclined Treadmill Training on the Gait Parameters and WOMAC Index in Subject with Total Knee Arthroplasty

Purpose: Total knee arthroplasty patients often experience problems with their ability to gait after surgery due to pain and limited range of motion.This study was conducted to verify the effects of inclined treadmill training on gait ability and knee joint function in total knee arthroplasty patients and to inform evidence-based rehabilitation strategies.Methods: Twenty patients with total knee arthroplasty were randomized to the inclined treadmill training group (experimental group) and the general treadmill training group (control group), respectively.Both groups performed 10 minutes of continuous passive motion prior to the main exercise, followed by 30 minutes of gait training on a treadmill, 5 times per week for 4 weeks.Pre and post-intervention spatiotemporal gait parameters and WOMAC index were assessed and compared.Results: After the intervention, both groups showed significant improvements in all spatiotemporal gait parameters and WOMAC index (p< 0.05).The experimental group demonstrated significantly greater improvements in step length (operated and non-operated sides), stance phase of the operated side, and WOMAC index compared to the control group (p< 0.05).Conclusion: Inclined treadmill training in total knee arthroplasty patients resulted in improved walking ability and knee joint function compared to general treadmill training.Therefore, inclined treadmill training can be considered in clinical practice to improve walking ability and knee joint function in total knee arthroplasty patients.