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Effect of Gluteus Maximus Strengthening in Genu Recurvatum: Pre-Experimental Study
Corresponding Author(s) : P. Bright Alwin Victor
International Journal of Allied Medical Sciences and Clinical Research,
Vol. 14 No. 4 (2026): 2026 Volume 14-Issue 4
Abstract
Background: Genu recurvatum [GR] refers to knee joint deformity with extension of the knee greater than 5 degrees. The aetiology of genu recurvatum is divided into congenital, constitutional, or acquired genu recurvatum. The genu recurvatum angle is associated with weaker hip external rotation (HER) muscle strength relative to hip internal rotation (HIR) muscle strength. The deformity is typically attributed to the functional weakness of the gluteus maximus. Gluteus maximus is the largest muscle in the buttocks. Its primary function is to extend the thigh and externally rotate the thigh.
Objectives: The study aims to find the effect of gluteus maximus strengthening on improving genu recurvatum.
Methods: This pre-experimental study was conducted in the Exercise Therapy Laboratory of Revathi Institute of Physiotherapy over a duration of eight months. A total of 30 participants were selected using purposive sampling. Subjects aged between 18 and 30 years, of both genders, with knee hyperextension greater than 5 degrees were included. Participants attended physiotherapy sessions twice a week for a total of 10 visits, with each session lasting approximately 30 minutes. The genu recurvatum angle was assessed using a universal goniometer in supine lying, with knee extension sustained using a towel. The stationary arm of the goniometer was aligned from the lateral epicondyle to the greater trochanter of the femur, and the movable arm from the lateral epicondyle to the lateral malleolus of the fibula, while the subject actively extended the knee.
Result: On comparing mean values of Genu Recurvatum Knee ROM between Pretest 6.10 ± .803 and Posttest 5.20 ± .761 within the group, it shows there is a highly significant difference between the pre-test and Post-test mean values, with a t value of 10.25 at P ≤ 0.001. The Post-test values have shown improvement when compared with the pre-test. Hence, the null hypothesis is rejected.
Conclusion: The results of the study showed a statistically significant improvement in knee range of motion with a reduction in genu recurvatum angle following gluteus maximus strengthening exercises. Comparison of pre-test and post-test measurements demonstrated a noticeable decrease in knee hyperextension among the participants. The findings indicate that the intervention was effective in improving knee control and alignment in individuals with genu recurvatum.