Evaluation of Q angle in differents static postures

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: To compare the value of Q angle in different positions, in the external and internal rotations of lower limbs. METHODS: This is a descriptive cross-sectional study. We have evaluated 62 volunteers, 32 women and 30 men in the following positions: supine positions with parallel feet, supine with abduction (external rotation of lower limbs), and standing position with parallel feet and with external rotation. All the participants were sedentary and without previous history of acute injury or complaints regarding lower limbs. In order to calculate the Q angle we used computerized biophotogrammetry through ALC image 2.1(r) program. RESULTS: The results of the comparisons showed significant difference between the standing position with feet parallel and orthostatic positions with abductees feet on the left side for both genders (p = 0.000). We also found a significant difference between supine and standing position with abducted feet and with feet parallel on the left side (p = 0.046) in females. CONCLUSION: From these results, we can conclude that there are significant differences in the standing position with abducted feet and parallel to the left leg, and symmetry between the lower limbs independent of rotation of limbs in the supine posture. Level of Evidence II, Diagnostic Studies Investigating a Diagnostic Test.

Effect of Body Positions on Quadriceps Angle Measurement

“…However, when comparing the Q angle in the supine posture no statistical differences were found i.e. the values of the Q angle did not change with the limb rotation in this position, suggesting that because of the absence of muscle contraction promoting muscle relaxation and release of the patellofemoral joint [4]. It was found that there could be within subject and between gender asymmetry in Q angle.…”

“…This was measured using a universal goniometer. The participant was then asked to lie down in supine position with neutral joint alignment [4]. Again the anatomical landmarks as above were marked and Q angle was measured.…”

Current clinical, radiological and treatment perspectives of patellofemoral pain syndrome

“…Traditionally measured with the patient supine and quadriceps relaxed, there has not yet been a standardization of the position and state of muscle contraction while measuring the Q angle. 22,23 It is an indicator of the net lateral force exerted on the patella by the quadriceps and the patellar tendon. 24 Q angle of more than 14° in males and more than 17° in females suggests abnormal lateralization of the tibial tubercle.…”

2-8 Yaş Arası Çocuklarda Kuadriseps Açısının Değerlendirilmesi

“…In many studies, it has been emphasized that measurement position caused a change in Q angle ( 19 , 36 ). When we compared the mean Q angle values measured in the supine and standing positions in our study in this context, no significant difference was found.…”

“…We think that lack of a difference between measurement positions was associated with compensation of increased pelvic width by way of lateral movement of the patella, as stated by Guerra et al ( 8 ). Another factor is the fact that standardization of the measurement position has not yet been provided ( 19 , 25 , 36 ). In the literature, the Q angle has been measured in the supine position with the knee in 20–25° flexion in some studies, and it has been measured with the knee in extension in some other studies, similar to our study ( 25 , 27 , 30 ).…”