Correlation between Stature and Arm Span: A Prospective Regional Study in Eastern Uttar Pradesh.

ABSTRACT

Background: When actual measurement of stature cannot be done, other surrogate parameters can be used to predict stature. Stature in clinical medicine and in the field of scientific research can be easily estimated using various anthropometric parameters like arm span, knee height, foot length and breadth etc. Arm span has been proven to be one of the most reliable predictors. Thus this study was undertaken to estimate the stature from arm span using regression equation and to determine correlation between stature and arm span. Methods: The present study was carried out in the Department of Anatomy, Hind Institute of Medical Sciences, Ataria, UP. Our study consisted of 124 MBBS students (85 boys and 39 girls). The stature and arm span was measured directly using anthropometric technique and measuring tape. The data collected were recorded and analysed with SPSS 16. Regression equations were derived for stature estimation and the relationship between stature and arm span was determined by Pearson correlation coefficient. Results: We found that the males with stature 171.34±9.71cm had the arm span of 174.27±8.63cm and the females with stature 159.41±6.33cm had the arm span of 156.47±7.85cm. The stature calculated using regression equation was 171.25±6.69cm in male and 159.25±4.95cm in females. The correlation between stature and arm span was positive and significant (r=0.689 for male, r=0.783 for female, p<0.05). Conclusion: Body height correlates well with the arm span so it can be used as a reliable marker for stature estimation using regression equation.