Lower limb muscles activity and inclined squat position in normal children (Cross sectional study)

Abstract

Background: Benefits associated with squat performance are not limited to the athletic population. Given that most activities of daily living necessitate the simultaneous coordinated interaction of numerous muscle groups, the squat is considered one of the best exercises for improving quality of life because of its ability to recruit multiple muscle groups in a single maneuver. Objective: To determine the effect of inclined squat position on the vastus medialis oblique (VMO) and gluteus maximus (GM) at the different ankle angles 5°-10° degrees of inclination in normal children. Subjects and methods: thirty non-athletic children of both genders, age ranged from 14 to 18 years, were selected from the Egyptian governmental schools at Sixth of October City and Sixth of October Sporting Club. The maximum voluntary isometric contraction (MVIC) was measured after the electrodes were attached to the GM and the VMO of the subject during squat postures which applied on two inclined borders 5 and 10 degree of inclination; the feet are spread out shoulder width, hip 70° flexion, knee 75° flexion and in the erect posture. Results: There was a significant increase in the VMO activity in 5° ankle angle compared with that of 10° ankle angle (p = 0.0001). There was a significant decrease in the GM activity in 5° ankle angle compared with that of 10° ankle angle (p = 0.0001). Conclusion: modification of ankle dorsiflexion during squat position should be integrated in the rehabilitation programs of the different injuries.