Analysis of Lower Extremity Joint Moment and Power during Squat in Female Patients with Genu Varum

Abstract

Objective: The aim of this study was to analyze the net joint moment and joint power of the lower extremity during squat in female patients with genu varum. Method: Eight female patients with genu varum were asked to do regular squats, and their net joint moment and joint power were compared to those of another eight female participants with straight legs. Their video recordings and ground reaction force data were analyzed to be used as a theoretical evidence of squatting effectively for female patients with genu varum. Results: Squats had a higher impact on internal knee joint rotation and ankle joint flexion moments in the genu varum group than in the straight leg group due to their weak and short hip joint muscles. Conclusion: There is a need to develop a squat movement that is appropriate for women with genu varum in order to distribute overload efficiently among the hip, knee, and ankle joints and to strengthen the muscles in a balanced way.