Three-Dimensional Morphological Variations of the Human Calcaneus Investigated Using Geometric Morphometrics

The shape of the calcaneus determines the mechanical interaction of the foot with the ground during the heel-strike in human walking. Detailed knowledge of the pattern of sexual dimorphism of the human calcaneus could help to clarify the pathogenetic mechanism of foot and knee disorders, which are more prevalent in females. Therefore, the aim of this study was to characterize and visualize the three-dimensional shape variations of the calcaneus in relation to sex and age using geometric morphometrics. Computed tomography images of 56 feet without subtalar injuries or disorders were used in this study. Thirty-seven anatomical landmarks were identified on the bone model of the calcaneus to calculate principal components (PCs) of shape variations among specimens. The PC scores were compared between males and females, and their correlations with age were also analyzed. The female calcaneus was longer in length and shorter in height than that of males. The medial process of the calcaneal tuberosity in females was more inferiorly projected and the tuberosity was shifted more laterally. Also, the calcaneus was wider and the sustentaculum tali thickened with aging. Female structural features of the calcaneus alter the kinematics of the foot during walking and could be a structural factor in foot and knee disorders. This study contributes to a comprehensive understanding of shape variations in the human calcaneus. Clin. Anat., 33:751-758, 2020. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.