Sex Estimation Using Heel-Ball Index: A Metric-Based Comparative Study on Foot and Footprint Dimensions

Background: Sexual dimorphism plays a vital role in individual identification, and body dimensions can contribute to establishing a biological profile for identification purposes. Aims and Objectives: To determine the reliability of the Heel-Ball Index (HBI) in estimating sex from foot dimensions and footprint dimensions and also to investigate the potential of dimensions and indices, using a standardized value, in estimating sex, from foot dimensions and footprint dimensions. Materials and Methods: In this study, a group of 112 young Indian adults aged 18 to 22, consisting of 56 males and 56 females, was examined. The foot breadth at ball (BBAL) and foot breadth at heel (BHEL) of both feet were measured using sliding digital calipers from foot and footprint dimensions. Results: Significant sexual dimorphism was observed in BBAL, BHEL, and HBI (HBI = BHEL/BBAL × 100) measurements in both feet of both sexes. Conclusion: HBI yielded better accuracy for foot dimensions than footprint dimensions. It was also found that utilizing absolute foot dimensions (BBAL and BHEL) yielded more accurate results in estimating sex compared to the HBI, which is calculated as a ratio of absolute measurements.