The effects of bariatric surgery on quadriceps (Q) angle, spatio-temporal characteristics of gait, physical activity and quality of life

The Effects of Bariatric Surgery on Q Angle, Spatio-Temporal Characteristics of Gait, Physical Activity and Quality of Life This study aimed to analyze Q angle, spatio-temporal characteristics of walking, physical activity level and changes in quality of life in patients by measuring conditions before bariatric surgery and third-month after the surgery. The study also aims to evaluate correlations/relationships between the result of these parameters. The study was conducted on thirty volunteer obese patients. Evaluations were made before and 3 months after the surgery. Q angle was evaluated by using universal goniometer, spatio-temporal characteristics of gait were assessed by using BTSG-Walk® device. Physical activity level and quality of life were evaluated with IPAQ- short form and IWQOL-Lite Questionnaire, respectively. Hamstring flexibility was evaluated by using universal goniometer regarding popliteal angle measurement; the flexibility of Rectus Femoris and Iliopsoas muscles were evaluated with Modified Thomas Test and the flexibility of lumbal extensors was evaluated with Sit and Reach Test. When compared the third month of the surgery with pre-surgery conditions, the results show that measurements of BMI, chest, waist, hip, and thigh circumference decreased (p<0.001). Also, differences are found regarding muscle shortness-flexibility measurements and Q angle measurements (p>0.05). The median speed of the patients was 56.80 m/sec (min-max:26.20-90.60) before surgery and 67.80 m/sec (min-max:36.40-122.50) at third month after surgery. The change in velocity values was determined as significant (p<0.001). Physical activity score increased significantly after the surgery ( p<0.001). As a result, it is observed that after bariatric surgery, Q angle measurements of the individuals decreased, and the spatio-temporal characteristics of walking, the physical activity levels, quality of life and muscle shortness/flexibility parameters increased. We conclude that the weight loss and the reduced pressure on the lower extremity may affect these results and that the gait parameters of the patients whose physical activity level increased because of weight loss will reach to average/normal degrees and the improvement in the quality of their life will increase. Keywords: Bariatric surgery, physical activity, q angle, quality of life, walking