Purpose : Genu varum is a condition characterized by a wider than normal gap between. This may be due to muscle weakness caused by poor posture, lifestyle, or lack of exercise. This study aimed to compare the effects of ball-based squats and narrow squats on muscle thickness, Q-angle, and the gap between the knees, in order to assess the potential for improving this condition.
Methods : Twenty six adult participants with genu varum were randomly assigned to either a ball-based squat group (n=13) or a narrow squats group (n=13). Both groups performed their respective exercises three times weekly for 4 weeks. The data was analyzed using paired t-tests to compare pre- and post- intervention measurements within each group, and independent t-test was used to compare the two groups.
Results : Both groups showed significant improvement in the thickness of the vastus lateralis and medialis, and rectus femoris muscles, as well as a significant decrease in the gap between the knees (p<.05). However, there was no significant difference in Q-angle variation between the two group. Furthermore, there was no significant differences in the Q-angle, gap between the knees, and muscle thickness variation between both groups.
Conclusion : The results suggest that both ball-based squats and narrow squats are effective in improving muscle thickness and reducing the gap between the knees in adults with genu varum. However, there was no significant difference between the two types of squats in terms of their effects on the Q-angle. These findings highlight the potential for exercise interventions to address this common postural issue.