Anterior Knee Pain (AKP) and its Relationship to Quadriceps Angle and Anthropometric Parameters: A Hospital-Based Cross-Sectional Study from Iraq

Abstract

Background:Anterior knee pain (AKP) is a common condition, especially among physically active adults who present a clinical challenge. Patellar malalignment is thought to be an important cause. Measuring quadriceps (Q) angle significant test used in the assessment of patellar alignment and hence used in the assessment of AKP. Objectives:To assess the relationship between AKP and Q angle among ample Iraqi patients. Materials and Methods:The right and left Q angles of 100 participants were measured using a universal goniometer. The participants were divided into three groups: controls, patients with left AKP (LAKP), and patients with right AKP (RAKP). The relationship between Q angles and different groups was tested using appropriate statistical tests. Results:The left Q angles for males measure 14.1 ± 1.9 in controls, 17.7 ± 1.6 in LAKP cases and 16.1 ± 1.8 in RAKP cases, and for the females 16.1 ± 1.8 in controls, 18.1 ± 1.8 in LAKP cases and 17.1 ± 2.5 in RAKP cases. The right Q angles for males measure 15.6 ± 2.2 in controls, 15.1 ± 2.7 in LAKP cases and 19 ± 1.6 in RAKP cases, and for the females were 17.7 ± 2.4 in controls, 17.9 ± 2.2 in LAKP cases and 19.9 ± 2 in RAKP cases. Both Q angles (right and left) were greater in females than in males and both were greater in cases than in controls. Conclusion:The study concluded that there is a significant association between AKP and quadriceps femoris angle measurement in both genders. Therefore, clinical and/or radiological demonstration of quadriceps angle can be used as a means for initial detection of AKP.

Keywords

• anterior knee pain
• iraq
• patellofemoral syndrome
• q angle