Original scientific paper
Morphological and Biomechanical Analysis of a Skeleton from Roman Imperial Necropolis of Casalecchio di Reno (Bologna, Italy, II-III c. A. D.). A Possible Case of Crutch Use
M. G. Belcastro
V. Mariotti
Abstract
A Roman skeleton (T.130) from the roman necropolis of Casalecchio di Reno has been
studied in order to understand if the hypothesis of crutch use, suggested by the severe
articular degeneration at the hip joint that caused evident reduction of his locomotory
possibilities, could be supported by the morphological alterations of other bones and
joints.
The pathological changes and muscular development of the upper limbs and shoulder
girdle bones suggest that these parts were submitted to a great mechanical stress.
The observations are consistent with the hypothesis of crutch use that would have involved
a new weight-bearing function of the upper limbs in order to help locomotion,
even though it is difficult to assess the number and type of the crutches. The comparison
with other possible cases of crutch use reported in literature gives an additional support
to the interpretation of the findings.
Keywords
Hrčak ID:
17223
URI
Publication date:
16.12.2000.
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