A modified anatomical method for estimating Japanese stature from the calcaneus and talus

Abstract

The primary objective of this thesis is to increase the accuracy of measurements for estimating stature using the anatomical method. This method represents a visual and repeatable approach, with fewer errors than Fully‟s original method. Currently, many archaeological and anatomy collections lack stature records, slowing the development not only of stature estimation regression equations, but also comparative studies such as ancestral and sex differences across populations. Since stature estimation regression equations utilizing calcaneus and talus are currently unavailable for Asian populations, living stature was estimated using this new anatomical method and regression equations were constructed as group-generic equations. This new approach demonstrates that, in the absence of long bones, the calcaneus and talus, which have more linear relationship than long limb bones to stature across groups, can be useful in estimating stature.