A Study of Comparision of Quadriceps Angle in Normal Young Adults and Older Individuals

Objectives: To evaluate the values of Q- angle in normal young adults and older individuals and to determine whether those values differed in young adults and older individuals.

Procedure: Convenient sample of n=31 were recruited from CAEHS Meerut and some were residents of the Meerut city. All subjects were informed about the procedure and purpose of the study and their demographic details were taken. The total subjects were divided into 2 groups on the basis of inclusion criteria. Group A included younger individuals between the age group of 19-25 years, Group B included older individuals between age group of 50-65 years. Measurement was taken in supine and standing position. Anatomical landmarks including the border of the patella, were palpated and the center of the patella marked by marker and then joined by the use of a scale and a marker. With the pivot of the goniometer placed on the midpoint of the patella, the stationary arm on the line adjoining the ASIS to mid-point of the patella, and the moveable arm placed over the line adjoining the tibia tubercle to the mid-point of the patella. The angle thus formed between the two arms of the goniometer was then measured and recorded as the Q- angle.

Results: Result were analyzed using SPSS 16.0 window, using the t test. The study revealed older individuals had more Q- angle as compared to the young adults.

Conclusion: There is significant difference in Q-angle between younger and older individuals with older individuals have more Q- angle than younger individuals.