Effectiveness of Task-Specific Gait Training Versus Conventional Exercise Programme on Balance and Functional Mobility in Post-Operative Total Knee Replacement Individuals: A Quasi-Experimental Study

Introduction: Total knee replacement (TKR) is an effective surgical intervention for reducing pain and improving joint function in individuals with advanced knee osteoarthritis. However, deficits in balance and functional mobility may persist after surgery, limiting independence and participation in daily activities. Task-specific gait training may complement conventional exercise programmes by directly addressing functional movement and walking-related challenges. Objectives: To compare the effects of task-specific gait training versus conventional exercise program on balance and functional mobility in individuals following unilateral total knee replacement. Methods: This quasi-experimental pre-test–post-test study was conducted in the Department of Physiotherapy at MGMCRI, Puducherry. Twenty postoperative TKR participants aged 60–75 years were allocated to Group A (n = 10) or Group B (n = 10) using the odd–even method. Group A received task-specific gait training combined with CEP, while Group B received CEP alone. Both groups participated in supervised rehabilitation sessions three times per week for six weeks. Balance and functional mobility were assessed before and after the intervention using the Berg Balance Scale (BBS) and Lower Extremity Functional Scale (LEFS), respectively. Data were analysed using paired and unpaired t-tests, with statistical significance set at p < 0.05. Results: Both groups demonstrated statistically significant improvements in BBS and LEFS scores following the intervention (all within-group p < 0.001). Group A showed greater mean improvement than Group B in BBS scores (14.8 vs. 5.4 points) and LEFS scores (22.8 vs. 7.4 points). Post-intervention comparisons favoured Group A for both outcomes (p < 0.001). Conclusions: Task-specific gait training combined with a conventional exercise programme was associated with greater improvements in balance and functional mobility than conventional exercise alone in individuals following unilateral total knee replacement. Incorporating task-specific gait training into postoperative rehabilitation may help enhance functional recovery in this population.