Comparison of Q Angle in Hallux Valgus and Healthy Individuals

Objectives: To compare the Q angle in individuals with hallux valgus (HV) and healthy individuals and to explore the correlation between HV and Q angle. Materials and Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 15 individuals with HV (HV group-mean age: 41.60 ± 18.66 years) and 15 healthy individuals without HV with similar characteristics (Control group-mean age: 39.80 ± 8.59 years) participated. Hallux valgus angle (HVA) and Q angle were measured with a universal goniometer while demographic information was recorded. Results: No significant difference was found between the Q angle values on both the right and left sides in the HV group and the control group (p=0.056, Effect Size (ES)=0.730; p=0.376, ES=0.331, respectively). A weak positive correlation was found between the right-sided HV and right-sided Q angles of the study participants (r=0.446, p=0.013). When the relationship was analyzed according to the groups, a moderate positive correlation was found between right-sided HV and right-sided Q angles in the control group (r=0.533, p=0.041). Conclusion: There is a relationship, albeit weak, between HVA and Q angle in individuals with HV and healthy individuals. HVA should be taken into consideration when evaluating lower extremity alignment.