Influence of quadriceps angle on static and dynamic balance in young adults

Changes in postural stability may be a reason for injuries in individuals who have altered musculoskeletal alignment. Q angle (QA) has shown to be a predictor for lower extremity injuries. However, the relationship between balance and QA has not been investigated in young adults.

The aim of the study was to investigate the relationship between QA and balance in young adults.

Ninety participants performed the single leg stance test (SLST) and Star Excursion Balance Test (SEBT) to assess static and dynamic balance, respectively. QA was measured using a manual goniometer. Participants were divided into low, normal and high QA groups.

The relationship between SLST and QA was not statistically significant in both eyes opened and closed condition (r=-0.030, p= 0.782; r= 0.031, p= 0.774; respectively). SLST scores did not differ among the three groups in both eyes opened and closed condition (p= 0.781, p= 0.790; respectively). QA significantly correlated with lateral, posterolateral directions and sum score of SEBT (r= 0.240, p= 0.023; r= 0.269, p= 0.010; r= 0.210, p= 0.047). The comparisons among the low, normal and high Q angle groups' SEBT scores showed that balance performance in lateral direction was poorer in low QA group (p= 0.027).

The results of the study showed that QA and dynamic balance have a significant relationship. To reduce musculoskeletal injury risk, the dynamic balance should be assessed in young adults who have lower QA.