EFFECTIVENESS OF CLUSTER STRENGTH TRAINING VERSUS TRADITIONAL RESISTANCE TRAINING ON STRENGTH, JOINT STABILITY AND FUNCTIONAL PERFORMANCE FOLLOWING POST-OPERATIVE TIBIAL PLATEAU FRACTURE.

Abstract

Background: Tibial plateau fracture is a type of intra-articular fracture occurring in approximately 34.28% of adult fractures. Such fractures significantly impact quality of life by delaying return to work and reducing activity levels. Post-operative complications such as joint stiffness, muscle atrophy, and functional limitations are commonly observed. Effective rehabilitation strategies are crucial for restoring muscle strength, joint stability, and overall functional performance, thereby facilitating early recovery and preventing long-term disability. 
Purpose: To evaluate the effectiveness of cluster strength training versus traditional resistance training on strength, joint stability, and functional performance following post operative tibial plateau fracture. 
Methods & Materials: A comparative study was conducted on 24 participants diagnosed with Schatzker type II tibial plateau fractures following surgical fixation. Participants in Group A received cluster strength training, while Group B received traditional resistance training. Outcome measures included muscle strength assessed using handheld dynamometry, joint stability evaluated through the Single-Leg Balance Test, and functional performance measured using the Lower Extremity Functional Scale. Assessments were performed before and after the intervention under supervised rehabilitation conditions. 
Results: Post-intervention results showed a statistically significant difference in muscle strength, joint stability, and functional performance (p < 0.05), with greater improvements observed in the cluster strength training group compared to the traditional resistance training group. 
Conclusion: Cluster strength training is an effective adjunct to traditional resistance training, improving strength, joint stability, and functional performance following post-operative tibial plateau fracture. This approach may enhance rehabilitation outcomes, promote faster return to daily activities, and support long-term functional recovery.