Activity Reconstruction of Post‐Medieval Dutch Rural Villagers from Upper Limb Osteoarthritis and Entheseal Changes

A study of 19th-century Dutch rural villagers from the Beemster Polder reveals that while most engaged in high levels of physical activity, no clear distinction was found between manual laborers and a potential wealthier class with less strenuous work. Gendered differences were observed in muscle attachments: males showed more pronounced biceps brachii, linked to lifting, while females exhibited stronger triceps brachii, possibly from activities requiring flexed-elbow pushing or pulling. However, osteoarthritis prevalence did not differ between sexes, complicating direct comparisons due to hormonal and anatomical factors. The study also found a low correlation between osteoarthritis and entheseal changes as activity markers, suggesting complex and variable etiologies that require further research for more reliable activity reconstruction.

Palmer, J. L. A., Hoogland, M. H. L., & Waters‐Rist, A. L. (2014). Activity Reconstruction of Post‐Medieval Dutch Rural Villagers from Upper Limb Osteoarthritis and Entheseal Changes. International Journal of Osteoarchaeology, 26(1), 78–92. Portico. https://doi.org/10.1002/oa.2397