Stature estimation from foot dimensions for human identification: A validation study

Objective: To validate the equation obtained by correlating the means of foot anthropometric measurements with the stature of individuals for human identification purposes. Methods: Cross-sectional, prospective, convenience sampling study with a sample of 450 individuals that met the pre-established inclusion criteria. Stature, foot anthropometric measurements, and footprint impressions of all participants were measured. Data were analyzed statistically by the software IBM SPSS, version 23. A significance level of 5% (p≤0.05) was adopted. Results: Significant differences (p < 0.001) were recorded between sexes for each of the analyzed variables. The mean estimated stature was correspondingly higher than the actual stature, with the mean differences being – 2.59 for males, - 4.25 for females, and – 3.41 for the entire group. Differences in mean percentage were of -1.56% for males, - 2.74% for females, and -2.15% for the entire group. Agreement of 0.75 between statureswith a 95% confidence interval was observed. Conclusion: The means of foot measurements and footprint impressions were higher for men. The stature estimated by the equation was greater than the actual stature. The equation presented goodaccuracy, enabling the application of this method for the population.