Peak torque, total work and power values when comparing individuals with Q-angle differences

The objective of this study was to examine possible differences in peak torque, total work and power between the quadriceps muscles relating to smaller or larger Q-angle. Twenty asymptomatic females between the ages of 23 to 27 met the inclusion criteria. Each subject answered a questionnaire, had their Q-angles measured, and performed concentric knee extension testing on the Biodex at speeds 60, 180 and 300°/sec. T-tests were used and significance was set at p < 0.05. The results showed the quadriceps with the smaller Q-angle had a significantly greater: peak torque at 300°/sec and at the combined peak torque speeds, total work at 300°/sec and power at 60°/sec and at the combined power speeds as well as trends in other tests. Understanding Q-angle difference may provide scientific and clinical rationale for the design of rehabilitation programs for patients with patellofemoral or anterior knee pain syndromes.