MSK imaging: Bohler angle: practice question

A Radiology question in the style of the NEET PG paper. Answer it first, then read why the right option is right and why each of the others is wrong.

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Radiology · MSK imaging: Bohler angle

Sample item

After a fall from height onto the heels, a lateral radiograph of the foot shows a Bohler angle of 10 degrees. What does this indicate?

Original practice item, not a recalled exam question. Nothing here is recorded.

The answer and the reasoning

B. Calcaneal fracture with flattening of the posterior facet

A normal Bohler angle is 20 to 40 degrees, and a reduced angle indicates depression of the posterior facet in a calcaneal fracture. Associated lumbar spine fractures should be sought after a fall on the heels.

Option by option

  • A. Tarsal coalition

    Tarsal coalition shows a bar between tarsal bones.

  • B. Calcaneal fracture with flattening of the posterior facet (correct)

    Correct. A reduced Bohler angle signals a calcaneal fracture.

  • C. A normal calcaneus

    Normal is 20 to 40 degrees.

  • D. Plantar fasciitis

    Plantar fasciitis shows a heel spur and thick fascia.

Source note: Original NextPrep sample item — pending expert review. This item is original practice material awaiting independent expert review, so confirm important facts in a standard textbook.

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Questions about this Radiology question

What is the answer to this Radiology question?

The best answer is B, Calcaneal fracture with flattening of the posterior facet. A normal Bohler angle is 20 to 40 degrees, and a reduced angle indicates depression of the posterior facet in a calcaneal fracture.

Why is "Tarsal coalition" not the answer?

Tarsal coalition shows a bar between tarsal bones.

Why is "A normal calcaneus" not the answer?

Normal is 20 to 40 degrees.

Why is "Plantar fasciitis" not the answer?

Plantar fasciitis shows a heel spur and thick fascia.

What concept does this question test?

It tests MSK imaging: Bohler angle in Radiology. Associated lumbar spine fractures should be sought after a fall on the heels.

How hard is this question?

We tag it as an application question: it asks you to use a fact on a patient or a finding. The tag is our own editorial judgement, not an official difficulty rating, so read the reason for every option, not only the answer.

How should I study MSK imaging: Bohler angle?

Learn signs with the image, and the disease they point to. Then use the flashcards and the other Radiology questions on this site to test what stuck.

Is this a real NEET PG question?

No. It is an original practice item (editorial status: sample, version 1). NextPrep does not publish recalled or leaked questions, and independent faculty review of this item has not been completed yet, so confirm important facts in a standard textbook.