Foot Levelers stabilizers decrease Q-angle: A study of flexible orthotics

 

The following is the abstract of a study, “Immediate Changes in the Quadriceps Femoris Angle After Insertion of an Orthotic Device,” by researchers D. Robert Kuhn, DC, Terry R. Yochum, DC, Anton R. Cherry, and Sean S. Rodgers. The study involves use of Foot Levelers’ Spinal Pelvic Stabilizers, custom flexible orthotics.

Abstract

Objective

To evaluate the effects of full-length, custom-made flexible orthotics (Spinal Pelvic Stabilizers) on quadriceps angle (Q-angle) in volunteers with bilateral foot hyperpronation.

Methods

Forty chiropractic student volunteers were selected. Inclusion criteria were asymptomatic, male, evidence of bilateral hyperpronation and no history of ankle surgery. Custom-made, flexible orthotics were produced. Subjects’ Q-angles were measured before and after orthotic insertion.

Results

Orthotic insertion demonstrated reduced Q-angle, in the direction of correction, in 39 of 40 test subjects.

Discussion

Research suggests that the hyperpronated foot is an etiologic factor in many lower extremity complaints, including foot, knee, hip and low back pain. Literature indicates that custom-made, flexible orthotics can stabilize the pes planus foot and restore optimal degree of pronation. Reduced pronation decreases the amount of tibial and femoral internal rotation, with subsequent Q-angle reduction.

Conclusion

Full-length, flexible orthotics significantly improve the Q-angle in hyperpronating male patients and offer the possibility of long-term benefits.

This research was provided by Foot Levelers. Click here to download a PDF of the complete research study.

Kuhn DR, Yochum TR, Cherry AR, Rodgers SS. Immediate changes in the quadriceps femoris angle after insertion of an orthotic device. J Manipulative Physiol Ther. 2002 Sep;25(7):465-70. PubMed. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12214188/. Accessed December 30, 2024.

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