Comparison of Q-angle, Knee Joint Proprioception, Risk of Injury, and Postural Stability among Habitual Users and Habitual Nonusers of High-heeled Footwear – A Cross-sectional Observational Study

This study compared the Q-angle, knee joint proprioception, risk of injury, and postural stability among habitual users and nonusers of high-heeled footwear. Fifty participants were assessed: 25 habitual users of high heels and 25 nonusers. A convenient sampling method was used. Q-angle was measured with a universal goniometer, knee joint proprioception with a goniometer pro mobile-based application in a functional position, and the side hop test evaluated risk of injury and postural stability. Inter-group data analysis was performed using SPSS. The Kolmogorov–Smirnov test was used to check whether the data are normally distributed or not. For the results to be statistically significant, P < 0.05 was considered. If the data passed normality, t -test was used and if the data did not pass normality Mann–Whitney U -test was used. Results showed no statistical significance in Q-angle, knee joint proprioception, risk of injury, or postural stability between habitual users and nonusers of high-heeled footwear. However, it was noted that the Q-angle, though not significantly different, was slightly increased in high-heel users. Although the mean difference in proprioception was not statistically significant, users of high-heeled footwear showed a reduced sense of proprioception compared to flat-heel users. All participants performed poorly in the side hop test. In conclusion, the study suggests that wedges and block high heels may not be detrimental to health. For professions that require the use of such footwear, wedges, or block high heels could be a safer option. This study is relevant to podiatrists, shoe manufacturers, researchers, clinical therapists, fashion designers, and corporate employers and employees. It serves as a tool for primary prevention, offering necessary patient education and promoting health.