The Journal of Korean Physical Therapy

The Korean Society of Physical Therapy (대한물리치료학회)
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The Effect of Postural Stability on Genu Varum in Young Adults

  • Chae, Yun-Won (Department of Physical Therapy, Gwangju Health College) ;
  • Park, Ji-Won (Department of Physical Therapy, College of Medical Science, Catholic University of Daegu) ;
  • Park, Seol (Department of Physical Therapy, Graduate School, Catholic University of Daegu)
  • Received : 2012.12.07
  • Accepted : 2012.12.19
  • Published : 2012.12.25
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Abstract

Purpose: Malalignment of the lower limbs may increases the difficulty of maintaining equilibrium. The purpose of this study was to study the effects of genu varum and poor posture in the sagittal plane on postural stability. Methods: We had 27 subjects with varus and 27 normal subjects participate in this study. Subjects for whom the distance between the medial epicondyles in the knee joint was more than 3 cm were classified as varus group, and subjects for whom the distance was less than 3 cm were classified as normal group. The measurements of static and dynamic stability were used overall stability index (OSI), anterioposterior stability index (APSI), and mediolateral stability index (MLSI) using a Biodex balance system. Results: When measuring the static stability index, there were significant differences in the mediolateral stability index between the varus and control groups. When measuring the dynamic stability index, there were significant differences in the overall, anteriorposterior, and mediolateral stability index between the varus and control groups. These results demonstrated that genu varum affects mediolateral movement in static stability, and overall, anterioposterior and mediolateral movements in dynamic stability. Conclusion: As genu varum affects static and dynamic stability in young adults, it increases the risk of injuries or falls. Exercise and surgery are required for realigning the genu varum. Future studies about postural stability in young children and elderly people who have a risk of falls due to lower postural control ability, are needed, as well as in young adults.

Keywords

References

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