CHANGES IN QUADRICEPS ANGLE (Q-ANGLE) WITH REGARD TO GENDER AND DIFFERENT ANTHROPOMETRIC PARAMETERS

Abstract

Introduction: The Q-angle is defined as the acute angle formed by the vectors for combined pull of the quadriceps femoris muscle and the patellar tendon. It has a great clinical and biomechanics significance. The present study was planned so as to study Q-angle in healthy young adult individuals and establish its relationship with different anthropometric parameters. Material and methods: The subjects for the study were normal healthy young adult medical students from A.C.S. medical college, Chennai, India.148 subjects (80 girls and 68 boys)were studied. Males and females between the age of 18-20 years were included in the study. Q-angle was measured using standard goniometer. The Q-angle in degree was measured on both sides. These Q-angles were correlated with various anthropometric parameters (height, weight, BMI, WHR, pelvic width, femur length). Results: The mean Q-angle in males on left side was 8.1+1.83and that on right side was 8.6 +2.20 The mean Q-angle in females on left side was 8.8+ 2.33 and that on right side was 8.9 + 2.52. There were no significant bilateral differences The Q-angle (Left) and Q-angle (Right) are significantly correlated with Weight (Kg), Waist (cm) and Hip (cm). However, these angles are not correlated with Weight for height or Waist for Hip ratio, pelvic width and femur length in females.In case of males, height, BMI, Pelvic width measurements were found to be correlated with Q-Left and Q-Right angle. Femur length was correlated only with Q-Left angle while there was no correlation with Q-Right angle. Conclusion: No significant differences in both gender was also noted, No significant bilateral differences were seen. According to our study Q-angle does not vary with the age. Several anthropometric measures on correlating with Q-angle signify that irrespective of gender higher Q-angles are seen with those having high BMI, increased waist and hip-circumference.