What Are Knock Knees in SSB?

The Services Selection Board (SSB) is responsible for selecting candidates to join the Indian Armed Forces. The selection process is rigorous, and candidates are evaluated on various parameters, including physical fitness. One such parameter is the alignment of the legs. Therefore, candidates must know what are Knock Knees in SSB and their significance in the SSB selection process.

Indian Armed Forces selection process, the alignment of legs is an essential criterion. Therefore, the SSB evaluates candidates on various parameters, including physical fitness, and knock knees are one such condition that can affect a candidate’s eligibility.  In this article, we will discuss what are knock knees in SSB, their causes, and their significance in the SSB selection process. Continue reading this article to learn about what are Knock Knees in SSB, the procedure to check Knock Knees in an Army, and details on the SSB Medical Test.

Knock Knees in SSB

Knock knees, also known as Genu Valgum, is a condition where the legs bend inward, causing the knees to touch each other. This condition is prevalent in children; in most cases, it corrects itself as they grow older. However, in some cases, knock knees can persist into adulthood, causing discomfort and pain. Knock knees are a crucial aspect of the medical standards as per the SSB for selecting candidates for various army wings. 

Medical professionals evaluate candidates with knock knees during the selection process. This is because knock knees can have implications on the candidate’s physical fitness and can potentially affect their ability to carry out certain duties in the armed forces. The medical standards set by the SSB for knock knees are stringent. The condition is classified as below:

If a candidate has knock knees condition above the maximum limit, they will be medically unfit for selection into the Indian Army. In such cases, the candidate will be unfit for further selection process.

What is SSB Medical Test?

The SSB (Services Selection Board) medical test is crucial phase of the selection process for the Indian Armed Forces. A team of experienced medical professionals, including doctors, dentists, and specialists conduct this medical evaluation.

The purpose of the SSB medical test is to determine the overall health and fitness of the candidates. Moreover, the test ensures that they are physically and mentally fit to perform their duties as cadets of the Indian Armed Forces. The SSB Medical Test comprises various medical examinations, including physical, visual, and hearing tests, to evaluate the overall fitness. 

Procedure To Check Knock Knees in an Army

The evaluation of knock knees in SSB is a crucial aspect of the medical examination which the authorities conduct during the selection process. The trained medical professionals assess the condition to ensure that the candidate meets the prescribed medical standards.

The procedure to check knock knees in an Army medical examination typically involves the following steps:

• Physical Examination

The medical examiner will first conduct a physical examination of the candidate, observing their gait and posture. They will look for any visible signs of the knock knees condition, such as a gap between the knees while standing with feet together or while walking.

• X-Ray Examination

In case the examiner suspects knock knees, the candidate will have to undergo an X-ray examination of the lower limbs. This will allow the examiner to accurately assess the degree of knock knees and identify any other underlying bone or joint deformities.

• Measurement of Genu Valgum

The degree of knock knees is measured by calculating the angle between the thigh bone and the shinbone. The maximum allowable limit for Genu Valgum in the Indian Army is 5 degrees on either side.

• Goniometry Assessment

The medical examiner may also conduct a goniometry assessment to measure the angle of the knee joint. This will help them determine the extent of the knock knees and assess whether it falls within the maximum allowable limit of 5 degrees on either side.

• Assessment of Other Factors

In addition to the above steps, the medical examiner may also consider other factors such as the candidate’s age, height, weight, and overall physical fitness. They will assess whether the candidate’s knock knees could potentially impact their ability to perform their duties effectively and whether the condition require any corrective measures.

Based on the above evaluation, the medical examiner will determine whether the candidate meets the prescribed medical standards for entry into the Army. Candidates who exceed the maximum allowable limit of knock knees or have any other underlying medical conditions that could impact their ability to perform their duties effectively will be medically unfit for selection into the Army. 

FAQs on Knock Knees in SSB

Some of the most frequently asked questions on what are Knock Knees in SSB are as below:

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