Strength and robusticity of the Neandertal tibia

Abstract

Abstract Three Neandertal tibias are naturally broken at or near midshaft allowing calculation of geometrical and mechanical parameters. Comparisons are made with a sample of 15 modern human tibias using identical methods. Relative torsional and bending strengths of the Neandertal specimens were twice those of the comparative sample. Basic morphometrics of the Neandertal tibia are also included.