• Journal of rehabilitation welfare engineering & assistive technology
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• v.10 no.1
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• pp.37-45
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• 2016

The purpose of this study was to assess the intra-rater, inter-rater and test-retest reliability and validity of frontal plane lower extremity alignment estimated from a rasterstereographic method using ABW-Mapper. Eighteen subjects participated in this study. The S angle (stereographic angle-frontal plane lower extremity alignment estimated from a rasterstereographic method) in standing was measured throughout the two sessions with one week interval by two different readers. In the first session, a reader measured S angle twice per subject with a short break in-between. The Q-angle (quadriceps angle) was measured using a standard goniometer from a photography taken through digital camera with the participant standing in the same position as in the S angle measurement. The HKA(hip-knee-ankle) angle was measured from a computer based digital radiograph with the computerized measurement software. Reliability was tested using intraclass correlation coefficients(ICC). Validity was tested using a Pearson's correlation coefficient. Excellent intra-rater(ICC=0.956~0.974), inter-rater(ICC=0.962), test-retest reliability (ICC=0.945) were demonstrated. There were strong negative correlations between S angle and Q-angle (r=-0.739), and between S angle and HKA angle (r=-0.702). Therefore, the S angle measured using a rasterstereographic mapper may be used to as a preliminary or supplementary tool to evaluate and study LE alignment in the frontal plane in relation to HKA angle or Q-angle.

• Physical Therapy Rehabilitation Science
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• v.5 no.3
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• pp.132-137
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• 2016

Objective: Eversion of the foot is created with internal rotation of the shank, and inversion of the foot is created with external rotation of the shank. The purpose of the study was to investigate the effect of continuous changes in the angle of the subtalar joint on lower extremity alignments. Design: Cross-sectional study. Methods: Seventeen healthy young adult subjects recruited. The subjects were asked to stand up in a natural standing position on a footplate with eye open and equal weight on each foot for 10s in two different conditions: The right subtalar joint was everted continuously $0^{\circ}-20^{\circ}$ and in separate segments of $0^{\circ}$, $5^{\circ}$, $10^{\circ}$, $15^{\circ}$, $20^{\circ}$. The averages of three trials were used. The observation of the changes in the lower extremity was performed with the use of 3-dimensional motion analysis. For data analysis, the SPSS 18.0 software using paired t-test and repeated measures analysis of variance (ANOVA) was applied. Results: The angle was significantly increased at the horizontal rotation angle of the shank, thigh, and ankle without anterior rotation of the pelvis (p<0.05). The maximum horizontal rotation angle at the thigh on $20^{\circ}$ was $-4.52^{\circ}$ in static, and $-3.10^{\circ}$ in the dynamic conditions compared to $0^{\circ}$. Conclusions: Increased unilateral foot pronation, thigh, shank, ankle horizontal rotation variance was significantly effective. The observation of the changes in foot abduction with the use of a 3-dimensional motion analysis augmented in predicting the angle values of each segment of the lower extremity. In further studies, a comparison of the right and left subtalar joints need to be investigated.

• Journal of Korean Physical Therapy Science
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• v.10 no.1
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• pp.90-101
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• 2003

Gait analysis can provide a better understanding of how the alignment of the lower limb and foot can contribute to force observed at the knee. Anatomic and mechanical factors that affect loading in the knee pint can contribute to pathologic change seen at the knee in degenerative pint disease and should be considered in treatment plan. The purpose of this study is to present the gait analysis data and to determine whether there is any relationships between alignment of the lower limb, foot progression angle and knee pint moments in elderly healthy women with 3-dimensional motion analyzer. The results were as follows; 1. Cadence showed 114.8 steps/min, gait speed showed 1.05 m/s, time per a stride showed 1.06 sec, time per a step showed 0.53 sec, single-supporting phase was 0.41 sec, double-supporting phase was 0.24 sec, stride length was 1.04 m, Step length was 0.56 m. 2. According to the parameters of kinematics, the maximal knee flexion angle through swing phase showed left $46.82^{\circ}$, right $40.19^{\circ}$ and the maximal knee extension angle showed left $-1.32^{\circ}$, right $2.01^{\circ}$. knee varus showed left $26.90^{\circ}$, right $30.93^{\circ}$. 3. Moment, one of kinetic parameters of knee pint the maximal flexion moment showed left 0.363. Nm/kg, right 0.464 Nm/kg and maximal extension moment showed left 0.389 Nm/kg, right 0.463 Nm/kg. The maximal. adduction moment showed left 0.332 Nm/kg, right 0.379 Nm/kg and the maximal internal rotatory moment showed left 0.13 Nm/kg, right 0.140 Nm/kg. 4. On sagittal plane, the maximal power of knee joint showed left 0.571 J/kg, right 0.629 J/kg. On coronal plane, the maximal power of knee joint showed left 0.11 J/kg, right 0.12 J/kg. On transverse plane, the maximal power of knee joint showed left 0.058 J/kg, right 0.072 J/kg. 5. The subject who had varus alignment of the lower extremity had statistically higher in knee adduction moment in mid stance phase. 6. The subject who had large foot progression angle had statistically lower in knee adduction moment in late stance phase. A relationship was observed between the alignment of the lower extremity and the adduction moment of the knee joint during stance phase. Hence, we need some research to figure, out the change of adduction moment according to the sort of knee joint osteoarthritis and the normal geriatrics as well. And we also require more effective, specific therapeutic program by making use of those background of researches.

• PNF and Movement
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• v.6 no.1
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• pp.53-60
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• 2008

Purpose : To describes the important aspects of knee joint movement and function used when applying PNF technique to the lower limb. Method : The knee was a very important roles in the lower limb movement and ambulation. This study summarizes the physiologic movement of knee to the PNF lower extremity patterns. Result : The tibiofemoral joint is usually described as a modified hinge joint with flexion-extension and axial rotation by two degrees of freedom movement. These arthrokinematics are a result of the geometry of the joints and the tension produced in the ligamentous structures. The patellofemoral joint is a sellar joint between the patella and the femur. Stability of the patellofemoral joint is dependent on the passive and dynamic restraints around the knee. In a normal knee the ligaments are inelastic and maintain a constant length as the knee flexes and extends, helping to control rolling, gliding and translation of the joint motions. Conclusions : It is important to remember that small alterations in joint alignment can result in significant alterations in patellofemoral joint stresses and that changes in the mechanics of the patellofemoral joint can also result in changes in the tibiofemoral compartments. Successful treatment requires the physical therapist to understand and apply these arthrokinematic concepts. When applied to PNF low extremity patterns, understanding of these mechanical concepts can maximize patient function while minimizing the risk for further symptoms or injury.

• Journal of The Korean Society of Integrative Medicine
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• v.11 no.4
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• pp.269-279
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• 2023

Purpose : The most effective intervention for flat foot is strengthening exercises for the intrinsic and extrinsic of the foot. Additionally, visual feedback is necessary for movement accuracy. However, the effectiveness of the intervention when combined with visual feedback was not revealed. To confirm this, the research was to investigate the effect of visual feedback and a complex exercise program on navicular bone height, plantar pressure, and lower extremity alignment. Methods : The twenty eight adult men and women with flat foot were randomly assigned to group 1 (n=14) and group2 (n=14), group1 performed complex exercises with visual feedback, and group 2 performed only complex exercises. Both groups performed a 40 minute compound exercise program three times a week. Navicular drop test, plantar pressure test, and lower extremity alignment test were performed equally in both group. Results : As a result of comparing the change in navicular height within the group according to the intervention, both groups showed a significant difference before and after the exercise (p>.05). There was not significant difference comparing the difference between the groups in the navicular height (p>.05). Comparing the change in plantar pressure within groups, there was not significant difference in the change in plantar pressure in both groups (p>.05). Coparing the difference before and after exercise between groups, there was not significant plantar pressure (p>.05). Comparing the change in leg alignment within the group, there was a significant difference in the change in ankle before and after exercise in group 1 (p<.05), but there was not significant difference in group 2. There was not significant difference in pelvic tilt and knee tilt before and after exercise in both groups (p>.05). Comparing the before and after exercise difference between groups, there were not significant in all variables of leg alignment (p>.05). Conclusion : The results of this study showed that complex exercise applied to patients with flat foot were effective in increasing the height of the navicular bone and ankle angle, but there was no effect due to visual feedback.

• Journal of International Academy of Physical Therapy Research
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• v.12 no.2
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• pp.2331-2337
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• 2021

Background: More women than men experience genu recurvatum, which can lead to knee pain and arthritis if left unattended. Pilates combined with taping is a suitable rehabilitation method for women with genu recurvatum. Objectives: To aimed the effect of taping and Pilates stabilization exercise on physical alignment and improvement of genu recurvatum in women with genu recurvatum. Design: A Randomized controlled trial. Methods: Twenty-one women were divided into three groups: taping group (back of knee taping and quadriceps femoris taping, n=7), Pilates exercise group (hip, knee and abdominal muscles exercise, n=7), and combined group (taping with pilates exercise, n=7). The measured variables were sagittal plane alignment and back and abdominal muscle, knee flexor and extensor strength. Results: After the intervention, all sagittal plane alignments were significantly improved in both the Pilates and combined groups. Sagittal plane alignment was significantly improved in the combined group compared with the taping group. Back and abdominal muscle strength were significantly improved in the Pilates and combined groups compared with the taping group. Knee flexor and extensor were significantly improved in the combined group compared with the Pilates group and in the Pilates group compared with the taping group. Conclusion: Pilates exercise with taping or Pilates exercise alone was effective intervention methods to improve physical alignment and strength in women with genu recurvatum.

• The Journal of Korean Physical Therapy
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• v.13 no.1
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• pp.197-204
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• 2001

Knee is a middle joint in lower extremity and has relationship with hip joint and ankle joint alignment. Therefore the knee joint alignment is very important in aspect of biomechanically. Knee joint alignment depend upon patellar stability. Instability of the patellofemoral articulation, in the form of patellar subluxation or dislocation may be associated with a number of factors. Normal range of patellofemoral angle is very different by the reporter and by the gender also.

• Physical Therapy Korea
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• v.23 no.1
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• pp.20-30
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• 2016

Background: Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) recovers the alignment of the knee joint, but fails to automatically restore the alignment and function of the hip and ankle joints. It may affect the alignment and stability of the knee joint, therefore therapeutic intervention in hip and ankle joint is necessary for the rehabilitation process after TKA. Objects: The aim of this study was to comparison of the effects of the two exercise methods on the coronal plane alignment after TKA. This study conducted an experiment by dividing subjects into a lower extremity isometric co-contraction group (LEIC) and a quadriceps isolated isometric contraction (QIIC) group. Methods: A total of 37 subjects were randomly assigned to the LEIC ($n_1$=19) or the QIIC ($n_2$=18). Exercise was applied to five times per week for three weeks, starting on the eighth day after surgery. Range of motion exercises were performed as a common intervention and then each group performed quadriceps isometric contraction exercises with 10 sets of 5 repetitions. Radiological imaging was performed prior to surgery, one month and six months after surgery. In addition, the hip-knee-ankle angle (HKA) and tibiotalar angle (TTA) were measured. Results: The HKA was close to neutral in the LEIC rather than the QIIC (p<.05). The LEIC showed varus and the QIIC exhibited valgus TTA (p<.05). In a comparison of HKA and TTA over time, there was no significant change in either group (p>.05). According to the comparison of the TTA before surgery, the LEIC showed significant changes in the varus direction (p<.05), while there was no significant change in the QIIC (p>.05). Conclusion: The LEIC method triggered changes in the TTA and brought the HKA close to the neutral. Thus, LEIC is more effective than QIIC in creating stability in the coronal plane alignment of the knee and ankle joints after TKA.

• PNF and Movement
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• v.21 no.3
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• pp.337-344
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• 2023

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to evaluate changes in the lower extremity kinematics of subjects with dynamic knee valgus after we applied non-elastic tape while they performed overhead squat. Methods: Twenty-five subjects (12 females, 13 males) with dynamic knee valgus participated in this study. Hip and knee joint kinematics and medial knee displacement were measured during overhead squat with and without hip correction taping. Results: Hip joint internal rotation, knee valgus, and medial knee displacement were significantly lower during overhead squat with hip correction taping than without hip correction taping, but there was no significant difference in hip joint flexion and abduction. Conclusion: Hip joint correction using non-elastic taping is recommended to subjects with dynamic knee valgus to improve their lower extremity movement and alignment during overhead squat.

• Proceedings of the Korean Society of Precision Engineering Conference
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• 2003.10a
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• pp.24-24
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• 2003

For the elderly, achieving a close-to-normal ambulation is important for activities of daily life. Recent researches of SE(Silver Engineering) restoring physical ability would help the elderly by developing the advanced gait assisting devices and orthoses. For the applications using the advanced technologies, the gait characteristics of the elderly must be understood. However, a few studies were performed to investigate the physiological or pathological gaits. The purpose of this study is to provide the gait analysis data and also to investigate relationships between alignment of the lower limb, foot progression angle and knee joint moments in the healthy elderly. By participating a total of 20 healthy elderly persons in this study, the following facts were found: 1) Cadence showed 114.8 steps/min, gait speed showed 1.05 m/s, time per a stride showed 1.06 sec, time per a step showed 0.53 sec, single-supporting phase was 0.41 sec, double-supporting phase was 0.24 sec, stride length was 1.04m, Step length was 0.56m; 2) The maximum knee flexion angle through swing phase showed left 46.82$^{\circ}$, right 40.19$^{\circ}$ and the maximum knee extension angle showed left -1.32$^{\circ}$, right 2.01$^{\circ}$. Knee varus showed left 26.90$^{\circ}$, right 30.93$^{\circ}$; 3) The maximum knee flexion moment showed left 0.363 Nm/kg, right 0.464 Nm/kg, The maximum knee extension moment showed left 0.389 Nm/kg, right 0.463 Nm/kg. The maximum knee adduction moment showed left 0.332 Nm/kg, right 0.379 Nm/kg. The maximum internal rotational moment showed left 0.13 Nm/kg, right 0.140 Nm/kg; 4) The subjects who had varus alignment of the lower extremity had statistically higher in knee adduction moment in mid stance phase; and 5) The subjects who had large foot progression angle had statistically lower in knee adduction moment in late stance phase.