EFFECT OF AN 8-WEEK CORRECTIVE GAMES PROGRAM ON GENU VALGUM IN 9- TO 12-YEAR-OLD FEMALES

Paper ID : 1716-SPORTCONGRESS

Authors

Fatemeh Rezai Hasan Abadi *1, Taher Afsharnejad2, reza sharifatpour2, hamid abbasi2, saeid abedinzade2 1yazd univercity 2yazd university

Abstract

Introduction: Genu valgum, commonly known as “knock-knee,” is one of the most prevalent lower limb deformities that can alter biomechanical alignment, increase knee valgus stress, and impair functional performance. This study was conducted to determine the effect of corrective games on the knee valgus angle in female students. Methods: In this randomized clinical trial, 26 female students aged 9 to 12 years with genu valgum from Yazd city were randomly assigned into two groups of 13 participants each: control and intervention. The severity of genu valgum was quantified in the pre-test using a caliper to measure the inter-malleolar distance.The validity and reliability of the caliper measurement method were confirmed in previous studies. The intervention group underwent an eight-week corrective games program. Results: The results showed that the corrective games protocol had a significant effect on improving genu valgum deformity and reducing the distance between the medial malleoli by 68.88% (P =0.001, η² =0.854). According to the analysis of covariance (ANCOVA), these changes were statistically significant, indicating that this intervention effectively enhanced neuromuscular control, postural alignment, and functional stability of the lower limbs. Conclusion: Based on the results of the present study, corrective games can be used to improve genu valgum and reduce the inter-malleolar distance. Considering the favorable effects of corrective games and their better compatibility with the physical and psychological characteristics of children, it is recommended that these game-based interventions be prioritized for this age group

Keywords

Corrective games, Students, Girls, Genu valgum

Status: Abstract Accepted (Poster Presentation)