Estimation of Stature and Sex from Footprint Dimensions in Telangana Population

Estimation of stature and sex from footprints is an important aspect of forensic identification, especially in cases involving mutilated remains and mass disasters. Footprints are easily obtainable and provide valuable anthropometric data. Population-specific standards are necessary due to regional and ethnic variations. To assess the relationship between bilateral footprint lengths and stature, evaluate metatarsal width for sex determination, and formulate sex-specific regression equations for stature estimation in the Telangana population. A cross-sectional study was conducted at Malla Reddy Institute of Medical Sciences, Hyderabad, from December 2022 to October 2024. The study included 150 healthy participants (75 males and 75 females) aged 16–25 years. Inked footprints were recorded on A4-sized sheets, and measurements from the heel to each toe were taken using a vernier caliper. Stature was measured with a stadiometer, and metatarsal width was recorded. Statistical analysis included correlation and linear regression analysis, performed separately for males and females. A statistically significant positive correlation was observed between footprint length and stature in both sexes. The coefficient of determination ( R ²) ranged from 0.123 to 0.642, indicating good predictive accuracy. The 95% confidence intervals for regression coefficients ranged from 2.0 to 4.2, with a mean estimation error within ±3 cm. Metatarsal width exhibited significant sexual dimorphism ( p < .001), with males showing a higher mean width (9.056 cm) compared to females (8.243 cm). Footprint length and metatarsal width are reliable anthropometric parameters for stature estimation and sex determination. The sex-specific regression equations derived in this study provide useful population-specific tools for forensic identification in medico-legal investigations and disaster victim identification.