Which knee condition is related to having a smaller angle of inclination?

The condition associated with a smaller angle of inclination is genu valgum, often referred to as "knock-knees." This deformity occurs when the knees angle inward while the feet remain apart, creating a smaller angle between the femur (thigh bone) and the tibia (shin bone). This inward angulation can result in increased stress on the knee joint and affect the alignment of the lower limbs.

Genu valgum is typically assessed by measuring the angle formed by drawing lines through the center of the hip joint to the center of the knee joint and from the center of the knee joint to the center of the ankle joint. When the angle is smaller, it indicates a more pronounced inward position of the knees.

In contrast, the other conditions listed do not specifically relate to the angle of inclination in the same way. Genu varum, for instance, is characterized by a larger angle of inclination where the knees bow outwards. Patellar tendinopathy and chondromalacia patella are more related to tendon and cartilage issues respectively, which are not directly influenced by the angle of inclination between the thigh and shin bones. Thus, genu valgum is correctly identified as the condition related to a smaller angle of inclination.