The Relationship of Dynamic Balance with Foot Posture Index and Q Angle in Premenopausal Nursing Population

Background: Nursing is a healthcare profession involving prolonged standing and heavy lifting of patients. Working in awkward positions for longer durations may lead to musculoskeletal problems in weight bearing joints like knee and ankle/foot. Abnormal knee or ankle/foot biomechanics can affect balance by changing somatosensory afferents which can affect their job and quality of life. This study aims to understand the relationship of dynamic balance with foot posture index and Q angle in premenopausal nursing population. Materials and Methods: Materials required for this study included pen and paper, a measuring tape, a weighing machine, a marker, adhesive tape, and a full-circle goniometer. The study design employed a cross-sectional analytical approach, and convenience sampling was utilized as the sampling method. The study included 175 premenopausal nursing professionals aged between 25 to 45 years with a minimum of 5 years of work experience. Foot posture was evaluated using the Foot Posture Index, and the Q angle was measured using a full-scale goniometer. Dynamic balance was assessed through the Star Excursion Balance Test (Y balance test). Data collection was done, and appropriate statistical analyses were conducted for the obtained data. Results: Correlation analyses were performed, but no significant (p value > 0.05) correlations were found between foot posture (FPI), Q angle, and dynamic balance (CRDS) for both the right and left sides. Conclusion: Our study concluded that there is no significant correlation of dynamic balance with foot posture index and Q angle in premenopausal nursing population. Key words: Foot Posture Index, Composite Reach Distance Score, Star Excursion Balance Test