This study analyzed femoral and tibial cross-sectional properties in a medieval Nubian skeletal sample to explore patterns of lower limb activity and mobility. The sample of skeletal remains was excavated from two cemeteries on Mis Island—cemetery 3-J-10 (AD 1100 – AD 1400) and cemetery 3-J-11 (AD 300 – AD 1400). Two research questions were investigated within the Mis Island sample. The first set of comparisons were conducted between the two cemetery groups that comprise the sample, to evaluate potential temporal and spatial differences between the communities. Biomechanical data between adult males and females were also compared to infer the degree of sexual division of activity and mobility in this society. The cross-sectional properties between the two cemetery sub-samples were not significantly different, suggesting that both groups of individuals shared similar levels of physical activity concerning the lower limbs during this period. Results of the comparison between male and female groups demonstrated significantly higher measures of diaphyseal robusticity in males compared to females. This finding indicates that male individuals in this society were generally involved in more physically demanding activity concerning the lower limbs. However, results of diaphyseal shape suggest that males and females may have been more similar in their roles regarding logistic mobility. The outcomes from this study indicate a sexual division of activity involving the lower limb, but perhaps a relatively equal level of mobility, that may have been present in this region throughout the medieval period.
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