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Carrying angle of the elbow - excessive |
| Alternative Names: |
| Elbow carrying angle - excessive; Excessive carrying angle of the elbow; Cubitus valgus |
| Information: |
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With the arms extended at the side, and the palms of the hand facing forward, the forearm and hands are normally held slightly away from the body. This is due to the normal carrying angle of the elbow, which is 5 to 15 degrees. This angle permits the straightened forearm to clear the side of the hips in swinging movements during walking, which is important when carrying objects. After certain fractures around the elbow, the carrying angle can be excessive. In addition, the angle can be decreased, where the arm points to the body, creating a "gunstock deformity." |
Reviewed By: Kevin B. Freedman, M.D., Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Rush-Presbyterian Medical Center, Chicago, IL. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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