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OPTOTRAK Measurement of the Quadriceps Angle Using Standardized Foot Positions
Lori A Livingston1, Sandi J Spaulding
1Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada.
Journal of Athletic Training
|August 26, 2003
Summary
The quadriceps (Q) angle magnitude changes with foot position, highlighting the need for standardized measurements. This study quantifies how foot placement affects Q angle values in healthy adults.
Area of Science:
- Biomechanics
- Kinesiology
- Orthopedics
Background:
- The quadriceps (Q) angle is a clinically relevant measure in lower limb biomechanics.
- Previous research suggests foot position influences the Q angle, but quantitative data is limited.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantitatively determine the effect of varying foot placement on the magnitude of the Q angle.
- To establish the relationship between self-selected and standardized foot positions for Q angle measurement.
Main Methods:
- A repeated-measures design was employed with 20 healthy young adults.
- The Q angle was measured bilaterally using an OPTOTRAK motion-measurement system under static weight-bearing conditions.
- Feet were positioned in self-selected and standardized stance positions, including the Romberg stance.
Main Results:
- Significant differences in Q angle magnitude were observed between different static stance positions (P <.001) and between limbs (P <.05).
- Mean Q angles ranged from 7.2 to 16.1 degrees depending on the stance and limb.
- The Romberg foot position demonstrated the highest correlation with self-selected stance measurements (Pearson r = 0.86–0.92).
Conclusions:
- Quadriceps (Q) angle magnitude is significantly influenced by foot position.
- Internal or external foot rotation leads to an increase or decrease in Q angle, respectively.
- A standardized foot position is crucial for reliable and reproducible Q angle measurements.