An Antemortem Malaligned Femoral Fracture in a Pre-Colonial Southern African Hunter-Gatherer/Herder

Abstract

Physical trauma has significant ramifications on a person's way of life depending on social structure and access to support. Understanding trauma for past people is valuable for assessing the impact of trauma on mobility, functionality, and social integration of individuals. The Holocene Later Stone Age (LSA) is a significant period in southern Africa and was dominated by hunter-gatherers and herders. A case of antemortem femoral trauma in a precolonial hunter-gather/herder from the Nama-Karoo in South Africa was assessed. Using macroscopic examination, photographic documentation, and radiographic analysis, an osteobiography was constructed showing the person was male, aged 35–49 years-at-death. The individual has a malaligned, healed oblique fracture to the proximal third of the femoral diaphysis. The malalignment resulted in shortening and medial rotation (~90°) of the distal femur. Due to the risk of complications and impairment, this individual would have required care, particularly in the early stages of healing post injury. The degree of healing indicates a level of care provision and assistance to ensure their survival and ability to maintain a role within the community. The study contributes to a deeper understanding of life ways for southern African hunter-gatherers and herders (sAHGH) highlighting importance of care and social support in mitigating the effects of trauma during the LSA. Further research is recommended to explore healthcare systems and expand the understanding of trauma for sAHGH.