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Bone density in medieval skeletons

I Ekenman1, S A Eriksson, J U Lindgren

  • 1Department of Surgery, Karolinska Institute, Huddinge University Hospital, Sweden.

Calcified Tissue International
|May 1, 1995
PubMed
Summary
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Bone mineral density (BMD) in 14th-15th century Stockholm individuals was similar to today, but lower in upper limbs and higher in lower limbs, suggesting activity patterns influenced bone health.

Area of Science:

  • Paleopathology
  • Human Osteology
  • Bioarchaeology

Background:

  • Historical skeletal remains offer insights into past health and lifestyle.
  • Understanding bone mineral density (BMD) in past populations can reveal adaptations to activity and nutrition.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To compare bone mineral density (BMD) in 14th-15th century Stockholm individuals with modern populations.
  • To investigate differences in BMD between upper and lower extremities and sexes.
  • To explore the relationship between lifestyle, age, and bone density in a historical context.

Main Methods:

  • Radiographic examination of skeletal remains.
  • Dual photon absorptiometry for bone mineral density (BMD) measurement.
  • Analysis of diaphyseal and metaphyseal bone density in various skeletal elements.

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Main Results:

  • Overall BMD comparable to modern North American and Northern European populations.
  • Higher diaphyseal bone density in lower extremities (femur, tibia) compared to today, particularly in men.
  • Lower diaphyseal bone density in upper extremities (humerus) and smaller metacarpal indices compared to modern individuals.
  • No significant bone loss observed after age 40; higher BMD in older individuals potentially due to selection for physical fitness.

Conclusions:

  • Activity patterns, such as increased walking and standing, likely contributed to higher lower limb bone density in the 14th-15th century.
  • Nutritional status may have influenced lower diaphyseal bone density in the upper extremities.
  • The study suggests that physical activity was a key determinant of bone density differences in this historical population.
  • The findings indicate that individuals who survived past 40 may have been selected for greater physical fitness, leading to higher bone density.