Squat Posture Analysis in Various Ethnic Groups in Malaysia

Abstract

The squat posture is commonly used in an Asian population like Malaysia. Certain positions have been shown to lead to pathologies like osteoarthritis. This study compares the hip, knee, and ankle joint angles in the squat posture among the Chinese, Indian, and Malay ethnic groups. Participants (N = 31) were divided equally into three groups; Chinese, Indian, and Malay (n = 11). The hip, knee, and ankle joint angles were measured during the squat using 2-dimensional motion analysis equipment. Series one-way ANOVA, p < 0.05, was used for analysis.  Significant differences in the hip angle between the Chinese and Indian groups (p = 0.020) were found. There was a significant difference in the frequency of squatting for religious purposes among the different ethnic groups (p=.000). There were moderate to high significant differences in the frequency of squatting for religious purposes among the Chinese and Malay groups (p=.049), and the Indian and Malay groups (p=.000). There were significant interethnic differences in the hip joint and the frequency of squatting for religious activities; however, further research is required to confirm these findings and expand this study's directions.