Journal Published Online: 01 July 1980
Volume 25, Issue 3

Evidence of Handedness on Documented Skeletons

CODEN: JFSCAS

Abstract

The collection of skeletal material at the University of Maryland School of Medicine now includes a small sample of scapulae and long bones of the upper extremities taken from cadavers of known handedness. This sample has been used to begin studies for determining the accuracy of methods currently used for diagnosing handedness. Measurements have been taken of the deflection angle that results from dorsal inclination of the glenoid fossa, humeral length and head diameter, bicondylar width, and radial and ulnar lengths. A radiohumeral index and the total combined length of the long bones for each extremity as well as side difference in total length were calculated. These data plus the presence or absence of an extensor facet on the dorsal margin of the glenoid fossa have been compared with the known hand preference. Thus far, the data indicate that the extensor facet, greater dorsal inclination of the glenoid fossa, greater total length of long bones, and greater bicondylar width correlate with the dominant side. Since the sample size is small, further work is needed before a valid statistical analysis can be made.

Author Information

Schulter-Ellis, FP
University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore
Pages: 7
Price: $25.00
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Stock #: JFS11265J
ISSN: 0022-1198
DOI: 10.1520/JFS11265J