Forensic Podiatry
Encyclopedia
Forensic Podiatry is a sub-discipline of forensic science wherein knowledge of forensic medicine is used in conjunction with knowledge of the anatomy
, function, deformities and diseases of the foot
, ankle
, lower extremities, and at times, the entire human body, to examine foot-related evidence in a legal and/or criminal investigation context.
Foot-related evidence can comprise different forms, including but not limited to: static and dynamic foot impressions (i.e. footprints) in footwear, on surfaces, in substrates, on victims; partial or complete pedal remains; or as found in medical records or x-ray (often to identify unknown individuals). In the course of an investigation, forensic podiatrists may examine footprints, footwear, or analyze and compare the gait
of unknown individuals.
In September, 2003, an organization was formed called the American Society of Forensic Podiatry. In July, 2007, with the help of ASFP members, a forensic podiatry sub-committee was established within the structure of the International Association for Identification
.
Anatomy
Anatomy is a branch of biology and medicine that is the consideration of the structure of living things. It is a general term that includes human anatomy, animal anatomy , and plant anatomy...
, function, deformities and diseases of the foot
Foot
The foot is an anatomical structure found in many vertebrates. It is the terminal portion of a limb which bears weight and allows locomotion. In many animals with feet, the foot is a separate organ at the terminal part of the leg made up of one or more segments or bones, generally including claws...
, ankle
Ankle
The ankle joint is formed where the foot and the leg meet. The ankle, or talocrural joint, is a synovial hinge joint that connects the distal ends of the tibia and fibula in the lower limb with the proximal end of the talus bone in the foot...
, lower extremities, and at times, the entire human body, to examine foot-related evidence in a legal and/or criminal investigation context.
Foot-related evidence can comprise different forms, including but not limited to: static and dynamic foot impressions (i.e. footprints) in footwear, on surfaces, in substrates, on victims; partial or complete pedal remains; or as found in medical records or x-ray (often to identify unknown individuals). In the course of an investigation, forensic podiatrists may examine footprints, footwear, or analyze and compare the gait
Gait
Gait is the pattern of movement of the limbs of animals, including humans, during locomotion over a solid substrate. Most animals use a variety of gaits, selecting gait based on speed, terrain, the need to maneuver, and energetic efficiency...
of unknown individuals.
In September, 2003, an organization was formed called the American Society of Forensic Podiatry. In July, 2007, with the help of ASFP members, a forensic podiatry sub-committee was established within the structure of the International Association for Identification
International Association for Identification
The International Association for Identification is the largest forensic organization in the world.The IAI was originally formed as the "International Association for Criminal Identification" in October 1915...
.