Skeletal evidence for kneeling in prehistoric Ecuador.

Bony changes on the superior distal surface of the metatarsals and the superior proximal surface of the first proximal foot phalanx are described in a prehistoric skeletal sample from Coastal Ecuador. The location and morphology of the alterations, as well as their association with femoral "squatting facets" strongly suggests they were produced by prolonged hyperdorsiflexion of the toes, probably resulting from habitual kneeling posture. Comparative data are presented from five other New World skeletal samples.