Biomechanical Properties of Femoral Diaphyseal Cross-sectional Shape from the Eunpyeong Population / 체질인류학회지

ABSTRACT

Long bone diaphyseal cross-sectional shape as a primary measure of biomechanical loading has attracted much attention in physical anthropology. Especially, lower limb bones have been widely used to reconstruct the mobility pattern of the past population. In this research, the cross-sectional size of the femoral shaft was investigated for the human skeletal remains excavated from the Eunpyeong site, dating the period spanning from the mid-15th to the early 20th centuries. The purpose of this research is to examine and report the biomechanical characteristics of the past populations living during Joseon Dynasty period. The results showed that Eunpyeong population was grouped into the 'platymeric category (i.e., platymeric index below 84.9). Females were more platymeric (i.e., more laterally flattened) than males and the sexual dimorphism was statistically significant. In addition, the samples of Eunpyeong site showed a relatively lower pilasteric index (i.e., more round) compared to the populations reported in other studies. The results of this research provide an insight to shed light on the ecological environments, subsistence strategies, and life styles of the past populations. Yet, for more detailed interpretation, it appears necessary to take into account other types of indicators for biomechanical stresses and accumulate more archaeological evidences.