Final answer:
The hamstrings-to-quadriceps ratio is indeed used as a rehabilitation goal after ACL injury to ensure a balanced knee strength, thus the statement is true. The Q-angle, related to femur angle and pelvic width, affects quadriceps muscle pull on the patella, contributing to patellofemoral syndrome risks, especially in females.
Step-by-step explanation:
The hamstrings-to-quadriceps ratio may indeed be used as a rehabilitation goal following ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) injury, and the statement is true. This ratio is important because maintaining a proper balance between the strength of the hamstrings and quadriceps can help to protect the knee joint and support the recovery process after an ACL injury. A disturbed balance, with weaker hamstrings relative to the quadriceps, can increase the risk of re-injury. Therefore, rehabilitation programs often focus on improving the strength of the hamstrings to achieve a more favorable ratio.
The concept of the Q-angle, measuring how far the femur is angled laterally away from vertical, is related but distinct from this balance. Typically, the Q-angle is 10-15 degrees, with a greater degree often observed in females due to their wider pelvis. This anatomical feature can result in women being more prone to patellofemoral syndrome. During knee extension, the quadriceps femoris muscle exerts a lateral pull on the patella, which must be balanced by other structures to maintain proper patellar tracking. Understanding these biomechanical relationships is paramount in tailoring effective rehabilitation protocols post-ACL injury.