The Role of Q-Angle in the Risk of Iliotibial Band Syndrome Among Runners in Denpasar: A Cross-Sectional Study

Ni Wayan Putri Kumarantini; I Putu Yudi Pramana Putra; I Made Niko Winaya; I Gusti Ayu Artini

doi:10.24843/mifi.000000428

Authors

Ni Wayan Putri Kumarantini Undergraduate and Professional Physiotherapy Program, Faculty of Medicine, Udayana University, Denpasar, Bali, Indonesia Author
I Putu Yudi Pramana Putra Department of Physiotherapy, Faculty of Medicine, Udayana University Author
I Made Niko Winaya Department of Physiotherapy, Faculty of Medicine, Udayana University Author
I Gusti Ayu Artini Department of Pharmacology and Therapy, Faculty of Medicine, Udayana University Author

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.24843/mifi.000000428

Keywords:

knee alignment, Q-angle, iliotibial band syndrome, runners

Abstract

Introduction: Iliotibial Band Syndrome (ITBS) is a common overuse knee injury among runners and the second leading cause of knee pain in this population. Genu varus and genu valgus are suspected to increase ITBS risk. The Q-angle is a key parameter in assessing knee alignment, influencing force distribution during running. This study examines the relationship between Q-angle and ITBS incidence among runners in Denpasar.

Methods: This cross-sectional study used purposive sampling, involving 99 runners aged 30–45. Knee alignment was measured using a goniometer, and ITBS was diagnosed via the Noble compression test. Data were analyzed using the Chi-Square test and Cramer’s V.

Results: ITBS was found in 34 participants (34.3%), primarily those with genu varus and valgus. Runners with a Q-angle outside the normal range had higher ITBS. Statistical analysis showed a significant relationship between knee alignment and ITBS (p = 0.001, p < 0.05), with a moderate correlation (r = 0.369).

Conclusion: Knee alignment, as measured by the Q-angle, is significantly associated with ITBS among runners in Denpasar, with a moderate correlation.