Ulnar adduction is defined by which carrying angle change?

Ulnar adduction is defined by which carrying angle change?

• A. Increased carrying angle
• B. Normal carrying angle
• C. Decreased carrying angle
• D. No change

Answer: (C)

Ulnar adduction reduces the carrying angle. The carrying angle is the angle between the upper arm and forearm when the arm is extended and the palm faces forward. Normally this angle is valgus (the forearm angles away from the body). When the hand moves toward the ulna (ulnar adduction), the distal forearm shifts medially, making that valgus angle smaller—hence a decreased carrying angle. Increasing the angle would imply more valgus, normal carrying angle means no change, and no change would not describe the adduction movement.

Ulnar adduction reduces the carrying angle. The carrying angle is the angle between the upper arm and forearm when the arm is extended and the palm faces forward. Normally this angle is valgus (the forearm angles away from the body). When the hand moves toward the ulna (ulnar adduction), the distal forearm shifts medially, making that valgus angle smaller—hence a decreased carrying angle. Increasing the angle would imply more valgus, normal carrying angle means no change, and no change would not describe the adduction movement.