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

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.

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