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Population-specific reference values for calcaneal angular parameters and their limited utility in sex estimation
Faruk Gazi Ceranoğlu1, Mehmet Tuğrul Yılmaz2, Duygu Akın Saygın2
1Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Health Sciences, Necmettin Erbakan University, Konya, Türkiye.
Anatomy & Cell Biology
|July 27, 2026
Summary
This study measured calcaneal angles in 540 adults to find average values and assess sex prediction accuracy. Results showed angles are not reliable for sex determination but offer clinical value for diagnosis and treatment.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Anthropology
- Radiology
Background:
- The calcaneus (heel bone) is crucial for locomotion and balance.
- Specific calcaneal angles have clinical importance in diagnosing fractures.
- Understanding population-specific angular parameters is vital for accurate medical assessments.
Purpose of the Study:
- Determine mean values of six key calcaneal angles in a healthy adult population.
- Evaluate the efficacy of these angles in predicting sex.
- Establish population-specific reference values for clinical and research applications.
Main Methods:
- Radiographic measurements of six bilateral angles (Böhler, Gissane, calcaneal inclination, Fowler-Philip, lateral talocalcaneal, calcaneal compression) were taken.
- Data from 540 individuals (aged 20-65) were analyzed.
- Statistical comparisons were made between sexes, age groups, and sides; receiver operating characteristic analysis was used for sex prediction.
Main Results:
- Significant differences were observed in calcaneal inclination and lateral talocalcaneal angles between right and left sides.
- The calcaneal compression angle differed significantly between sexes.
- Böhler and Gissane angles showed significant variations across age groups. Calcaneal angles were found unsuitable for sex prediction.
Conclusions:
- Mean values for calcaneal angles were established, providing valuable data for clinical diagnosis and treatment.
- Calcaneal angles alone are not appropriate for sex prediction in the Turkish population.
- Findings contribute baseline data for future multivariate and machine learning studies on calcaneal morphology.
