Genç Erişkinlerde Alt Ekstremite Fiziksel Parametrelerinin Denge ile İlişkisinin İncelenmesi ve Cinsiyete Göre Karşılaştırılması

Abstract

The aim of this study was to investigate the relationships between static and dynamic balance, isokinetic muscle strength, joint position sense, Q angle, pes planus degree, changes in plantar pressure, and physical activity levels in young adults, and to compare the results based on gender. A total of 30 healthy volunteers, 15 females and 15 males, aged between 21-32 years, participated. Demographic data (age, height, weight, body mass index) and information on the dominant lower extremity were recorded for each participant. Physical parameters of the knee and foot were evaluated with Q angle and Feiss line. The International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) short form was used to determine physical activity levels. Balance assessment was carried out using the Biodex Balance System under both static and dynamic conditions, with participants standing on both feet and one foot. Muscle strength and joint position sense assessments were performed using the Biodex Isokinetic System 4 device. Plantar pressure assessment was conducted using the MatScan Pressure Mat System. Static plantar pressure assessments were performed with both feet on the mat and with one foot on the mat, while a two-step protocol was used for dynamic plantar pressure assessment. Evaluations were conducted under shoeless conditions for both lower extremities. Differences between genders for descriptive data were analyzed using the Mann-Whitney U test and Chi-Square test, and correlations between parameters were examined using Spearman Correlation Analysis. Significant differences were found in Q angles, dynamic balance scores, muscle strength, and plantar pressure values based on gender (p<0.05). Balance scores showed low to moderate correlations with all lower extremity assessment parameters (p<0,05; r:0,258-0,720). Dynamic balance was associated with Q angle (p<0,05; r:0,267-0,345), while static balance was related to pes planus degree (p<0,05; r:0,258). Postural sway increased as the Q angle decreased and the navicular tubercle descended. Dynamic balance scores were particularly associated with muscle strength and plantar pressure data (p<0,05; r:0,259-0,720). Static balance scores did not show significant correlations (p>0.05). In conclusion, it was found that the Q angle, pes planus degree, physical activity level, muscle strength, joint position sense, and plantar pressure parameters are associated with balance in young adults, and there were differences in results based on gender. According to the findings of this study, there is a need for further research to simultaneously assess physical parameters related to balance in young adults. Gender differences suggest the potential need for gender-specific adjustments in rehabilitation programs targeting balance. Monitoring changes, particularly in muscle strength and foot pressure, and making necessary exercise or footwear-orthotic adjustments for preventive approaches are deemed important based on the results.