Osteochondrosis in Archaeological Cattle (Richard Ward)

Osteochondrosis in Archaeological Cattle (Richard Ward)

Osteochondrosis often referred to as Osteochrondritis or Baker & Brothwell Type 1 lesions, occurs on the articular surfaces of elements, and are visible as longitudinal or triangular shaped disturbances of the articular surface, often described as pits. These lesions are frequently present within modern livestock often on the bones of the hock joint, but are predominate on the first Phalanx. The lesions are frequently noted within archaeological remains as the final stages of the lesions are easily noted during the recording. Despite the prevalence of these lesions, there has only been limited research into the disorder, its etiology and impact within zooarchaeological research, and modern veterinary research still has much to offer to zooarchaeologists.

This poster presents recent data concerning this disorder, its development and possible evidence of attributing factors causing it, in turn exploring its meaning when analyzing assemblages on a whole.

Richard Ward, Southampton University

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