Size and Shape Differences Between Male and Female Foot Bones

This study introduces a new technique to measure bone size and
shape. A three-dimensional laser scan was taken of the talus, navicular,
medial cuneiform, and first metatarsal from 107 skeletons of known age
and sex. The bones were analyzed for differences in bone morphology
between the sexes and the ability of each bone to contribute to the adducted
position of the first metatarsal. Linear measurements showed
that male bones were larger than female bones. Measurements of articular
surfaces suggested that female bones had the potential for more
movement to occur in the direction of adduction, possibly resulting in
the female first metatarsal being more adducted than that in the male
skeleton. Such differences may underlie the predisposition of the female
foot to develop hallux valgus deformity.

Citation:
Ferrari, Jill; Hopkinson, David A.; Linney, Alf D. (2004) ‘Size and Shape Differences Between Male and Female Foot Bones’ Journal of the American Podiatric Medical Association 96 (5) 434-452.