Does anyone know of archaeological data concerning the fibula?

Question

Looking for raw data, of an archaeological nature, of the fibula in prehistoric or historic populations, preferably dealing with paleopathology or degenerative joint disease (osteoarthritis). Thanks

Answer 1

I can't provide any direct links or titles....but I would recommend looking at some material from the early historic period in the southeast US. I read some papers in undergrad which examined the osteology of native americans before and after european contact. I dont remember anything specifically about the fibula...but there was a lot of information about the development of joint disease, arthritis, etc after contact...came as a result of changing from a varied, balanced diet to a predominantly corn based diet....and extreme physical labor....as a result of virtual enslavement

wish i could help more

Answer 2

There are a couple good sources for paleopathology that I can recommend.  The first is Identification of Paleopathological Conditions in Human Skeletal Remains by Ortner.  That's one of the very best references for any kind of skeletal paleopathology and the osteoarthritis section is quite extensive.  I would say try to find this book first, as I've found it to be the best from experience.  

Also, try the Cambridge Encyclopedia of Paleopathology.  This covers all forms of paleopathology, not just skeletal pathologies, and also has an extensive osteoarthritis section.

Those two books are probably the best resources you can find, but there are of course other books and articles you can try and find, just do a search at the library for paleopathology or try looking up some archaeology or bioarchaeology articles.

Answer 3

I'm not sure that I have heard of these specific studies; however, I do know that there have been studies on prehistoric populations.  I had heard about some when I was in college years ago.  I went to the University of Wyoming.  Either one of the archaeologists or the physical anthropology professors might be able to give you a good lead anyway.  Their website is http://uwadmnweb.uwyo.edu/anthropology/  from here you can email the individuals.

Also, I found a wonderful page of links for you, but you may have to dig a bit from it.  http://www.paleopathology.org/links.html