Determining the relationship between q angle and lower extremity performance according to gender in young soccer players

Objective: The purpose of this study was to investigate the Q angle differences according to gender and the relationship between Q-angle and lower extremity performance in young soccer players. Method: Sixty-two young soccer players (10-14 years) were included in the study. Participants were allocated into two groups according to genders (32 male, 30 female). Quadriceps angle (Q angle) measurements were performed in three different positions as: lying supine quadriceps femoris relaxed, lying supine quadriceps femoris isometrically contracted, and standing. In addition, quadriceps femoris muscle strength was determined by using a hand-held dynamometer, and lower extremity performance was determined by using vertical jump test. Results: The groups were found similar regarding to age at baseline. Females showed greater values regarding to Q angles which were measured while the quadriceps femoris contracted, while standing, and vertical jump test scores, while males had greater quadriceps femoris muscle strengths for both sides (p<0.05). Significant correlations were found between vertical jump test scores and age, body mass index, Q angle while quadriceps femoris contracted, Q angle while standing, and quadriceps femoris muscle strength. (p<0.05). Conclusion: According to our results, quadriceps femoris muscle strength has a negative impact on Q angle in young soccer players. In addition, body weight effects the vertical jump test scores more than Q angle and quadriceps femoris muscle strength. However, while the lower extremity performance is assessed by using vertical jumps test, Q angle and quadriceps femoris muscle strength should be considered along with the body weight.