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The Effect of Q Angle on Ankle Sprain Occurrence
Nikolaos Pefanis, MSc*,
Xenofon Papaharalampous, MD, PhD,
Georgios Tsiganos, PhD,
Eugenia Papadakou, MD, PhD,
and
Panagiotis Baltopoulos, MD, PhD
* To whom correspondence should be addressed. E-mail: npefan{at}phed.uoa.gr.
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Abstract |
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The intersegmental joint forces and the structures that must resist them (articular surfaces, ligaments, and musculature) are related through anatomical alignment of the joints and skeletal system. Ankle joint structure can affect or be affected by bony malformations of the surrounding areas, including the knee and hip. The aim of the current study is to examine the possible relationship between the quadriceps (Q) angle and other factors (anthropometric characteristics, medical history, and age) on the occurrence of ankle sprains, because its value, when assessed correctly, provides useful information for the anatomical alignment of the lower extremity. The study sample consisted of 45 high-level athletes, evenly distributed among 3 sports (basketball, soccer, and volleyball). Q angle measurements were made on radiographs. The study lasted for 2 years. A logistic regression was used to determine the importance of each factor on the probability in question. A significance level of P = .1 was used. The factors contributing more to an ankle sprain were a previous injury of the same type (P < .01) followed by body mass index (BMI; P < .10) and age (P < .10). On the contrary, Q angle was proven to be statistically nonsignificant (P > .10). The results were valid even when the BMI variable was substituted by body inertia propensity, a derived variable. The Q angle remained statistically nonsignificant (P > .10). The Q angle magnitude does not seem to be a decisive factor that could increase the probability of spraining an ankle. The most important factors that could affect the probability of sustaining an ankle sprain are the athletes age, anthropometric characteristics, and prior injuries.
First published on January 8, 2009, doi:10.1177/1938640008330769
Foot & Ankle Specialist 2009;2:22.
A more recent version of this article appeared on February 1, 2009

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