Q-Angle: A Factor in Peak Torque Occurrence in Isokinetic Knee Extension

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine the differences in peak torque occurrence during knee extension range of motion between groups of subjects with varying quadriceps-angle (Q-angle). Fifty-six female subjects, aged 18 to 35, participated in the study. The subjects were separated into three groups: low (N = 12) consisted of subjects with Q-angles <11°; moderate (N = 27), 13–17°; and high (N = 17), > 19°. Three sets of subjects, grouped according to Q-angle, were evaluated using the Cybex II® Isokinetic Dynamometer. Each subject was tested at three isokinetic speeds (30, 60, and 180°/sec) utilizing only the right lower extremity. The results suggest that the point at which peak torque occurs within knee extension range of motion is not significantly different between the three groups of subjects tested at the three test speeds.