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Radiographic examination of Chinese foot binding
R W Mann1, P S Sledzik, D W Owsley
1Department of Anthropology, National Museum of Natural History, Washington, DC 20560.
Journal of the American Podiatric Medical Association
|August 1, 1990
Summary
This case report details severe foot deformities from Chinese foot binding, visualized through 1948 radiographs. Anthropological insights illuminate this historical practice and its lasting effects.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Medical Anthropology
- Cultural History
Background:
- Foot binding was a traditional Chinese custom involving the tight binding of the feet of young girls to alter their shape and size.
- The practice, prevalent for centuries, aimed to conform to aesthetic ideals and was associated with social status.
- Understanding the long-term orthopedic consequences is crucial for historical and medical perspectives.
Observation:
- Radiographs from 1948 depict severe, prolonged deformities of a left foot, indicative of long-term foot binding.
- The archival nature of the radiographs provides a historical snapshot of the physical impact of the custom.
- Detailed examination of the skeletal structure reveals the extent of the pathological changes.
Findings:
- The radiographic evidence demonstrates significant bone malformation, joint dislocation, and ligamentous damage consistent with chronic foot binding.
- These findings correlate with historical accounts of the pain, disability, and health issues associated with the practice.
- The severity suggests the binding was initiated early in life and maintained for an extended period.
Implications:
- This case report contributes to the understanding of the severe orthopedic morbidity resulting from foot binding.
- It highlights the importance of considering cultural practices when evaluating historical medical conditions.
- Further research can explore the prevalence and spectrum of deformities associated with foot binding across different regions and time periods.