A preliminary study of the measurement of external ischial tuberosity width and its gender differences

[Purpose] Using two measurement methods, this study measured the external ischial tuberosity widths (EITW) of both males and females and investigated gender differences in these EITW values. [Subjects and Methods] Fifteen male and 15 female Taiwanese were recruited for this study. Their EITWs were measured using the impress and the seated pressure methods, and compared. [Results] The results show that the EITW values obtained using the impress method were similar to those reported by previous studies, but gender differences were observed in the measurements when that method was used (male: 11.96 cm; female: 13.53 cm). However, the males had non-significantly greater EITW values than the females when the seated pressure method was used (male: 13.42 cm; female: 13.30 cm), and this was probably due to the distinct characteristics of the buttocks of the two sexes and the seated pressure method. [Conclusion] The authors of this study propose that 12.0 and 13.5 cm are respectively the ideal design parameters for male and female EITWs in Taiwan, although13.5 cm might be more appropriate for male EITWs in the design of relatively hard seat or saddle surfaces.