Diagnosing tarsal coalition in medieval Exeter

ConclusionsThese frequencies are quite high for clinical imaging estimations, but consistent with other reported archaeological frequencies.SignificanceThis study contributes to known frequencies of tarsal coalition in the past. It also provides descriptive diagnostic criteria for identifying tarsal coalition in archaeological populations.LimitationsPoor preservation of some of the individuals in this sample means that the true frequencies of tarsal coalition may be underrepresented.Suggestions for further researchThis study should be expanded to include more archaeological sites, especially medieval British sites, to determine overall prevalence rates. Additionally, the diagnostic criteria should be compared with other examples of known tarsal coalition to further our understanding of this rare pathology.
Source: International Journal of Paleopathology - Category: Pathology Source Type: research