THE QUADRICEPS ANGLE - A REVIEW OF THE LITERATURE

Previous investigations of the quadriceps (Q) angle and its relationsh ip to knee disorders have yielded equivocal results. The purpose of th is paper is to present a review of the current literature an the Q ang le and to examine the differences in Q angles when measured: 1) under differing measurement protocols; 2) between asymptomatic and symptomat ic populations; 3) between male and female samples; and 4) from side t o side within subjects. Little scientific evidence exists to support t he commonly held assumptions that Q angles are larger in symptomatic v s. asymptomatic or that they are equal in the right vs. left lower lim b. However, larger mean values are consistently observed in groups of young adult females vs, young adult males.