Impact of Handedness on Clavicle Bone Chemistry in 16th-Century Sailors
Bones from 16th-century shipwreck suggest left-handedness changes what happens to us when we die 🔗
Research on skeletal remains from the 16th-century shipwreck of the Mary Rose indicates that handedness, particularly being right-handed, may influence changes in clavicle bone chemistry as individuals age. The study, conducted at Lancaster University, found that the mineral content in right clavicles increased more significantly with age compared to left ones, likely due to the physical demands of ship-related activities. This suggests that the stress placed on the dominant arm affects bone development. The findings have implications for understanding bone health and conditions like osteoarthritis, bridging historical insights with modern medical knowledge.
What did the study find about the clavicle bones of the Mary Rose crew?
The study found that the mineral content in the right clavicles of the crew increased more significantly with age compared to left clavicles, suggesting that handedness affects bone chemistry due to physical stress.
How does handedness relate to bone health according to the research?
Right-handed individuals may experience greater stress on their right clavicles during repetitive activities, influencing how their bones develop and change over time, which is relevant for understanding conditions like osteoarthritis.
Why is this research considered important?
This research not only provides insights into the lives of 16th-century sailors but also contributes to modern medical understanding of bone health and the effects of physical activity on bone composition.