Height estimation using forearm and lower leg lengths in healthy young individuals

[Purpose] This study developed and examined a regression equation predicting height from the total lengths of the forearm and lower leg, establishing a simple method for estimating height in healthy young individuals. [Participants and Methods] Participants were 81 second-year students (41 males and 40 females) from our university's Physical Therapy Department. The standing and supine heights and the forearm and lower leg lengths of the participants were measured, and the data were correlated and analyzed using regression. [Results] A strong correlation was observed between the total length on the left side and standing height (r=0.846). The regression equation calculated from the total length on the left side, "height (cm)=1.6 × total length (cm) + 67.0", yielded a coefficient of determination of 0.72. [Conclusion] Our newly developed estimation formula does not require specialized equipment. It can quickly and noninvasively estimate height with just a tape measure, making it useful across a variety of settings, including disaster medicine, emergencies, school health checkups, and nutritional assessments.