Correlation of Thigh Length with Adult Human Stature

Abstract

Objective: To find correlation of thigh length with adult human stature.
Study Design: Cross sectional correlational study
Place and Duration of Study: This study was conducted at the Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, King Edward Medical University, Lahore from 24 May 2024 to 24 August 2024.

Methods: Sixty medical students (30 males and 30 females) were enrolled, with informed consent obtained after explaining the study's purpose. Biodata, including name, age, gender, and city, was collected. Stature, inter anterior superior iliac spinal distance, and thigh length were measured per Krogman's procedures, with the measurement team trained to minimize observer bias.

Results: The mean age of participants was 20.48 years (SD 1.19), with 30 males and 30 females. Those under 20 years comprised 45% (n=27), while those over 20 made up 55% (n=33). The mean thigh length was 46.18 cm (SD 2.02) and mean stature was 169.48 cm (SD 8.35). The overall correlation between thigh length and stature was 0.203 (p=0.12). In males, it was -0.106 (p=0.579) and in females, 0.099 (p=0.60). For participants under 20, the correlation was 0.167 (p=0.40), while for those over 20, it was 0.252 (p=0.158).

Conclusions: This study evaluated thigh length as a predictor of adult stature, finding a weak to moderate correlation that varied by gender and age. Although it shows some potential, correlation is not strong enough to recommend it as a standalone measurement.