Journal of Punjab Academy of Forensic Medicine & Toxicology

In recent times, the occurrence of dismembered human remains has become more common due to the increasing frequency of both natural disasters—such as earthquakes and landslides—and human-induced events like stampedes, structural collapses, traffic accidents, mining incidents, fires, and explosions. In many post-mortem examinations, only partial or mutilated remains are available.

This study was undertaken to assess the potential of using hand length as a tool for estimating stature and to evaluate the applicability of regression equations separately for males and females.

This descriptive cross-sectional research was carried out in the Outpatient Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology at Government Medical College, Kota. Hand length was measured from the tip of the middle finger to the wrist crease, while hand breadth was recorded at the widest point where the fingers connect to the palm. Stature was measured to the nearest centimetre using a stadiometer, with participants standing barefoot, arms at their sides, and fingers pointing downward.

The findings revealed a strong positive correlation between hand dimensions and stature in both sexes. These results support the use of hand measurements as reliable indicators for estimating height, especially in forensic anthropology where complete skeletal remains may not be available.