The Effect of Heel Type on Q Angle

Abstract

Background: Around 80% of women prefer wearing high heel footwear, out of which 30% use it for professional reasons. Usage of high heel footwear revealed to exhibit pathological differences in entire lower limb mechanics.There is a dearth of literature regarding change in surface area of contact of footwear on lower limb biomechanics, with constant heel height in high heel footwear users.Study design: Cross sectional observational study.Objectives: To assess and compare Q angle in women wearing flat heel, wedges and pointed heel footwear.Methodology: 147 females were screened and only 99 (according to inclusion and exclusion criteria) were enrolled in the study. Three groups were made (33 participants in each group). Q angle measurements were taken in supine and standing positions. Collected data was analysed using one way ANOVA and Post Hoc analysis.Results: Mean value of the Q angle in flat footwear users is (Rt-14.27±1.64), (Lt-14.18±0.95) in supine; (Rt-15.15±2.22), (Lt.15.18±1.89) in standing. In wedged heel users is (Rt-16.39±1.58), (Lt-16.06±1.92) in supine and in standing (Rt-16.82±2.07), (Lt-16.58±1.95) respectively. In pointed heel users is (Rt-18.76±1.5), (Lt-18.58±1.25) in supine; and (Rt-18.85±1.28), (Lt-18.76±1.3) in standing. There was statistically significant increase in participant's Q angle (p < 0.0001) with change in type (surface area of contact) of footwear. Conclusion:Variable heel type has an effect on Q angle. The Flat heel users have normal Q angle. Wedge heels and pointed heels are associated with significant increase in Q angle.Clinical implication: Usage of flat footwear is advisable for good lower limb mechanics. Wedges are not better than pointed heel footwear.

Analysis of Predictors Affecting Biomechanical Function of the Knee Joint and Its Relation to Anterior Knee Pain

“…It is measured by using a manual caliper when a volunteer stands erect in anatomical position and then flex the dominant leg to 90 degrees at the knee joint [4]. There are studies which suggest that there is no statistically significant difference between measurements obtained with calipers and different radiological methods [3,5]. Thus this parameter can be considered as a good predictor for knee pain.…”

“…Quadriceps femoris angle of the knee is an acute angle reflecting the placement of quadriceps musculature in relation to the bony structures like pelvis, thigh bone, and shinbone present below it [5]. Quadriceps femoris angle is referred excessive when the vector drawn from the mid-point of the patella increases laterally and eventually potentiates disorders of the patellofemoral joint.…”