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.