Identification of working reindeer using palaeopathology and entheseal changes

Abstract Objective This paper explores the potential of analyzing pathological lesions and entheseal changes in the identification of working reindeer. Methods The skeletons of 26 modern working reindeer from Siberia and Northern Finland are analyzed for pathological lesions and entheseal changes. Results Working results in elevated frequencies of pathological lesions, specifically joint disease in cervical and thoracic vertebrae, humeri, os coxae and proximal phalanges. Entheseal scores indicate the intensified use of shoulder flexors and extensors, and possibly elbow, hip and knee flexors and extensors in working reindeer. Conclusion Patterns of skeletal changes can be used in the identification of working reindeer from the past. Significance This study provides first evidence that pathological lesions and entheseal changes can be used to assess draught and cargo use of reindeer. Therefore, the methods presented in this study provide an opportunity to scrutinize past reindeer herding practices, reindeer domestication and human-reindeer cooperation. Limitations Methods need to be applied with caution due to the multifactorial etiologies of pathological lesions and entheseal changes. Suggestions for future research We suggest that in future studies, these methods are applied to archaeological material accompanied by osteometric and contextual analyses.