Biomechanical Analysis of Femoral Diaphyseal Cross-sectional Properties from the Three Kingdoms Period Populations, Korea

Abstract

The purpose of this research is to examine and report the biomechanical characteristics of the past populations that lived in different environments during the Three Kingdom Period of ancient Korea. In this research, the cross-sectional size of the femoral subtrochanter region and mid-shaft was measured for the human skeletal remains excavated from the Three Kingdoms Period sites: Imdang and Yean-ri site. The results showed that two populations were grouped into the platymeric category. Moreover, female groups were more platymeric than males. The difference in platymeric index between populations was significant only among female groups with the samples of Imdang site more platymeric than those of Yean-ri site. Meanwhile, pilasteric indexes in two populations were similar level. This study is the first report of the mechanical characteristics in the Three Kingdoms Period population. Yet, for more detailed understanding, it is necessary to investigate more individuals of indicators for biomechanical loading in ancient Korean populations.