The 3 Most Common Temporary Rejections (TR) in Rally Medicals
During the rally medical examination, candidate physical posture is inspected systematically from head to toe. The three most common skeletal issues flagged by Armed Forces Medical Officers are Genu Valgum (Knock-Knees), Pes Planus (Flat Foot), and Cubitus Valgus (Excessive Carrying Angle).
1. Knock-Knees (Genu Valgum)
The Test: The Medical Officer will ask you to stand with your medial malleoli (inner ankle bones) touching together.
The Standard: If your knees touch and your ankles cannot come together with at least 5 cm clearance, or if there is excessive inward curvature, you are flagged as Temporary Unfit (TR).
Corrective Exercises: Butterfly stretches, resistance band clam shells, and horse-riding stance (Ashwa Sanchalanasana) to strengthen gluteus medius and correct hip internal rotation.
2. Carrying Angle (Elbow Deviation)
The Standard: The normal physiological carrying angle in males is 10° to 15°. Any angle exceeding 18° to 20° is considered a disqualifying structural deviation because it hinders proper rifle recoil handling and heavy load bearing.
Key Insight: Minor variations of 1° to 2° are often caused by poor posture or muscle tightness. Targeted triceps and forearm release exercises can help restore functional alignment.
3. Flat Foot (Pes Planus)
The Test: The wet footprint test or observing the medial longitudinal arch while standing and on tiptoes.
Rigid vs. Flexible: If an arch appears when standing on your toes (flexible flat foot), it is often acceptable. However, a completely rigid flat foot that causes fatigue on marches is non-negotiable.