The Physical Status and Proprioception in Individuals with Genu Recurvatum: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to compare the physical condition and knee proprioception in individuals with and without genu recurvatum and the differences between genders in individuals with genu recurvatum. Methods: The study was conducted on a total of 136 individuals, aged 18-35 years, with (n = 67) and without (n = 69) genu recurvatum. Genu recurvatum angle, pelvic tilt, medial longitudinal arch height, hip flexors, hamstring muscle shortness, quadriceps femoris, and gastrocnemius shortness were assessed. Trunk flexibility (sit-and-reach test), dynamic balance (Y balance test), laxity level (Beighton hypermobility scale), and trunk muscle endurance (McGill and Plank test) were also evaluated. Concentric and eccentric muscle strength of the quadriceps femoris and hamstring muscles, and knee proprioception were recorded using an isokinetic device. Results: There was a significant difference between the individuals with and without genu recurvatum in terms of laxity level, trunk flexor muscle endurance, posterolateral dynamic balance, and proprioception sense at 10° knee flexion (P < .05). Additionally, in individuals with genu recurvatum, hip flexor and hamstring length, trunk flexibility, joint hypermobility, and trunk flexor endurance were found to be higher in women, while medial longitudinal arch flexibility, Y balance (anterior–posteromedial–posterolateral), lateral trunk and whole trunk muscle endurance, quadriceps, and hamstring concentric and eccentric muscle strength were found to be higher in males (P < .05). Conclusion: Individuals with genu recurvatum had higher laxity level and trunk flexor endurance, less posterolateral dynamic balance, and proprioception sense at 10° knee flexion. The effects of balance and proprioceptive exercise training in individuals with genu recurvatum should be examined in the future studies. © 2024 AVES. All rights reserved.