What is the normal lateral bowing angle?

• A. 0 degrees
• B. 2.6 degrees
• C. 5 degrees
• D. 7 degrees

Answer: (B)

A small amount of curvature in the bone shows up on the lateral view, and that curvature is described by the lateral bowing angle. In healthy adults, this bowing is minimal, typically only a few degrees. About 2.6 degrees sits right in that normal range, making it the most representative value for a normal lateral bowing angle. Values around zero would be unusually straight, while larger angles like 5 or 7 degrees indicate more pronounced bowing that could be associated with deformity or pathology. The measurement is made on the lateral radiograph by assessing the curvature of the bone in the diaphyseal region and quantifying the resulting angle, with roughly 2–3 degrees considered normal.