Correlation of Carrying Angle to Height, Age, Dominance of Hand and Marital Status in Females of Haryana – A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Introduction and Rationale: Knowledge of the carrying angle is important in the diagnosis of certain clinical conditions like cubitus varus, cubitus valgus and neuropathies. Carrying angle also gives immense knowledge about biomechanics of elbow joint and weight transmission. The aim of this study is to understand variations in carrying angle among married and unmarried females. The difference is thought to be associated with wider pelvis structure which a female has after normal delivery. Carrying angle is useful in preoperative surgical planning as well.

Objective: The primary objective of the study is to evaluate the carrying angle among married and unmarried females and the relation of the carrying angle to gravida. Also, the association of other factors such as height, weight, age, and dominance of hand difference in females of age group 5-50 years will be studied.

Method: 300 healthy females participated in the study. The carrying angle was measured by a goniometer. Height (cm) and weight (kg) were measured by a height measuring scale and an electronic weighing machine respectively. BMI was calculated.

Results:  The mean carrying angle in married females is 13.3± 2.1° and in unmarried females is 12.9± 2.0. The angle was more in married females. It also shows an increasing trend with age upto puberty, then it plateaus and decreases in old age. Whereas, with increased height the carrying angle also increases.