Which statement correctly describes the formula for the angle of maximum kyphosis?

• A. # Inclinometer T1/T2 + # Inclinometer T12/L1
• B. Inclinometer T1/T2 + Inclinometer T3/T4
• C. The angle is read directly from a single inclinometer
• D. Inclinometer T1/T2 - Inclinometer T12/L1

Answer: (A)

Measuring the angle of maximum kyphosis relies on capturing the full bend of the thoracic spine by using two inclinometer readings at the endpoints of the curve. Place one inclinometer around the upper thoracic region (T1/T2) and another around the lower end at the T12/L1 junction. Adding these two readings yields the total kyphotic angle because each position measures how much that segment tilts relative to horizontal, and the whole curvature is the combination of both tilts. Using only a single inclinometer would miss part of the curve, and taking measurements at an intermediate level (like T3/T4) wouldn’t capture the entire kyphotic arc. Subtracting the two readings wouldn’t reflect the total forward bend either.