From Angles to Aches: The Q-Angle's Crucial Link to Pain and Life Quality in Postmenopausal Women

ABSTRACT: Low back pain (LBP) is a prevalent issue among postmenopausal women, significantly affecting their quality of life (QoL) and overall functionality. This study delves into the intricate relationship between pain disability, QoL, and Q-angle within this age group. Over six months, 150 postmenopausal women were recruited from a community health center for this observational study. Pain disability was meticulously assessed using the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), QoL was evaluated through the SF-36 questionnaire, and the Q-angle was measured with precision using a goniometer. The analysis, conducted using Pearson correlation coefficients, unveiled significant correlations: a strong negative correlation between pain disability and QoL (r = -0.65, p < 0.01), a moderate positive correlation between pain disability and Q-angle (r = 0.34, p < 0.05), and a modest negative correlation between QoL and Q-angle (r = -0.29, p < 0.05). These findings indicate that greater pain disability is linked to poorer QoL and an increased Q-angle in women experiencing LBP. This study underscores the critical need for comprehensive management strategies that address these factors to enhance patient outcomes in this population. Keywords: Low Back Pain, Postmenopausal, Quality of Life, Pain Disability, Q-angle.