What is the normal anatomical alignment of the knee during inspection?

• A. The kneecap aligns with the second toe when viewed from the front
• B. The kneecap is located directly above the ankle
• C. The knee appears angled inward towards the other knee
• D. The kneecap is positioned laterally compared to the hip

Answer: (A)

The normal anatomical alignment of the knee during inspection indicates that when viewed from the front, the kneecap, or patella, should align with the second toe. This alignment is considered ideal as it reflects proper quadriceps strength and stability in the knee joint. Proper alignment is essential for optimal biomechanics of the lower extremity and helps ensure that weight is distributed evenly across the knee and lower limb during activities such as walking and running.

In contrast, other options illustrate misalignments or incorrect positions of the knee. For instance, if the kneecap were located directly above the ankle, it would suggest a significant displacement rather than normal alignment. An inward angling of the knee towards the other knee would indicate a condition known as knock-knees (genu valgum), which may lead to joint pain and instability. Lastly, if the kneecap were positioned laterally compared to the hip, this misalignment could suggest a structural issue in the legs or hips, potentially resulting in functional deficits or pain. Thus, option A correctly represents the expected anatomical alignment during inspection of the knee.