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Paleopathological interpretations of hypermobility syndrome in the art from ancient America

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Abstract

Paleopathological representations of hypermobility syndrome were assumed in pre-Columbian artifacts from different ancient civilizations from America. Anthropomorphic sculptures from several museums and galleries visited on site or thru Internet show the human figure in contorted positions. These positions are only possible within well-trained individuals or persons with hyperextensibility of the joints.

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References

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Acknowledgments

The study of the Taíno’s artifacts was supported by Acromax Dominicana and Igneri foundation. I would like to thank the García-Arévalo Foundation, Museum of the Dominican Man, Barakat gallery, Anthropos gallery, Museum of Archeology, Anthropology, and History from Peru. I also want to thank my wife Debra Checa for her valuable review and commentaries about the original manuscript.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Division of Rheumatology, Drexel University College of Medicine, 219 N Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA, 19107, USA

    Angel Checa

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  1. Angel Checa
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Correspondence to Angel Checa.

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Checa, A. Paleopathological interpretations of hypermobility syndrome in the art from ancient America. Rheumatol Int 32, 3291–3294 (2012). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00296-011-2007-7

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00296-011-2007-7

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