Q-angle: a factor in peak torque occurrence in isokinetic knee extension*

Area of Science:

• Biomechanics
• Kinesiology
• Orthopedics

Background:

• The quadriceps angle (Q-angle) is a measure of knee alignment.
• Variations in Q-angle may influence lower extremity biomechanics and performance.
• Understanding Q-angle effects is crucial for injury prevention and rehabilitation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate potential differences in peak torque occurrence during knee extension.
• To compare these differences across groups with varying Q-angles.
• To assess the influence of Q-angle on isokinetic knee extension performance.

Main Methods:

• Fifty-six healthy females (18-35 years) were categorized into low (<11°), moderate (13-17°), and high (>19°) Q-angle groups.
• Isokinetic knee extension peak torque was measured using the Cybex II Dynamometer.
• Testing was performed at three angular velocities: 30, 60, and 180 degrees/second.

Main Results:

• No statistically significant differences were observed in the point of peak torque occurrence within the knee extension range of motion.
• These findings remained consistent across all three tested Q-angle groups.
• Peak torque occurrence was not significantly affected by the tested isokinetic speeds.

Conclusions:

• The Q-angle does not appear to significantly alter the location of peak torque during knee extension in healthy young females.
• Isokinetic knee extension performance, specifically peak torque timing, is consistent across a range of Q-angles.
• Further research could explore other biomechanical parameters or different populations.