Determining the relationship between the quadriceps and tibiofemoral angles among adolescents

Abstract

Objectives: This study aims to determine the relationship between the quadriceps angle (Q-angle) and tibiofemoral angle (TF-angle) among adolescents. We also compared the angles between both the lower limbs with respect to dominancy, measured the difference between athletic and non-athletic angles, and explored the variations of these features in different sports. Methods: We recruited 150 adolescents aged between 12 and 18 years and classified them into two groups; group A (athletic group), including four subgroups of players of different sports, and group B (non-athletic group). We measured the Q-angle and TF-angle via computerized photogrammetry. Results: This study showed a strong and statistically significant relationship between Q-angle and TF-angle (p < 0.05). Similarly, we found a statistically significant difference in the Q-angle and TF-angle between both the lower limbs concerning dominance. Lastly, we identified a significant difference between the athletic and nonathletic groups. However, there was no difference among players of different sports (p > 0.05). Conclusion: Our study showed a strong relationship between the Q-angle and the TF-angle. The Q-angle and the TF-angle should be measured bilaterally and the nature of sports should also be considered.