What is a Q-Angle?
A Q-angle, short for quadricep-angle, is named for the quadriceps portion of the upper leg and refers to the anatomical angle between the hip and the knee. Specifically, it is the angle formed between the longitudinal axis of the femur, representing the line of pull of the quad muscle, and a line that represents the pull of the patellar tendon. The patellar tendon is a band of strong connective tissue attaching the shin bone to the knee cap.
The width of the pelvis determines the degree of the q-angle. Women have a more pronounced Q-angle than men due to a wider pelvis and lower center of gravity. The Q-angle in men is normally less than 15° and 20° in women when the quadriceps are relaxed. The angle becomes smaller when the quadriceps are contracted.
The Q-angle is measured by creating two intersecting lines: one from the center of the patella to the anterior-superior iliac spine of the pelvis; the other from the patellar to the tibial tubercle.
Because the Q-angle in women is greater then in men, a woman’s stride is different than a man’s. The initial strike of the heel tends to be concentrated on the outside of the foot (know as supination). This places additional stress on the medial ligaments causing discomfort. Most women will attempt to compensate for this motion by directing their weight toward the inside of the foot (pronation), twisting their foot at full heel strike. To alleviate the pressure caused from pronation, women will alter their stride again and place their weight on the lateral (outer) side of the foot. The cycle of altering the natural pattern of movement ultimately results in discomfort and pain. Tests reveal that up to 75% of women experience this cycle.
So what is Merrell’s Q-Form® Technology?
Merrell’s patent pending Q-Form® technology combines properly sequenced cushioning with a supportive and naturally aligning midsole to create a technology that is 100% tailored to women and the way they move. The Q-Form® midsole provides proper support and re-directs the woman’s gait minimizes the over-correction, alleviates discomfort and reduces wear on the shoe by ensuring an even wear pattern. The Q-Form® midsole is a molded midsole with three separate degrees of firmness. When combined with a patented air cushion, the system directs a women’s stride into a more fluid, balanced process that results in extended comfort, stability, and wearlife of the shoe.
You can find the Q-Form® technology in lot’s of Merrell’s women’s footwear, including the Merrell Pro series of women’s work shoes – Merrell performance shoes brought indoors.
Written By: Lisa Girolami, Marketing Manager of Michigan Industrial Shoe, MichiganShoe.com, Local Distributor of Work Boots, Safety Shoes and Work clothing, Redford MI
