The effects of Q angle and Hamstring Length on Balance Performance in Patients with Lumbar Disc Hernia

Abstract

Aim: Patellafemoral angle (Q angle) and Hamstring length are important measurements to evaluate balance. This study aims to examine the effects of Q angle and Hamstring length on balance performance in patients with lumbar intervertebral disc herniation (LDH). Material and Methods: LDH (n=32) and control group (CG)(n=30) were included in the study. Q angles and hamstring muscle lengths of the participants were measured. Balance was evaluated with Y balance test. Results: As a result of our study, no difference was found between LDH patients and CG groups in terms of hamstring muscle length; Q angle decreased in LDH patients and there was a negative high correlation between Q angle and R -Anterior, R-Posteromedial, R-Posterolateral values on the right and between Q angle and L-Anterior, L-Posteriolmedial, L-Posterolateral values on the left. Conclusion: It was found that Q angle measurements decreased in LDH patients, causing genu varum and leading to impairment in balance, especially in the left anterior, anteromedial and anterolateral.