A Possible Case of Temporomandibular Joint Dislocation, Trepanation, and Metabolic Bone Disease in a Young Adolescent From North‐Central Myanmar (1000–700  bce )

ABSTRACT

This osteobiography explores the life history of an adolescent who lived during the early‐mid Bronze Age (c. 1000–700

) and was buried at Nyaung'gan, a site in north‐central Myanmar. Burial 3b had multiple skeletal lesions, and their bones were covered in well‐remodeled subperiosteal new bone. A differential diagnosis was undertaken to evaluate the etiology of the lesions and potential co‐morbidity. The lesions observed have different underlying mechanisms, and while most represent reactive biological responses to trauma and disease, a circular cranial lesion with remodeled margins is more consistent with intentional trepanation than a natural biological process. The findings suggest that 3b had survived a significant traumatic cranial injury earlier in childhood and was suffering from a dislocated temporomandibular joint and possible co‐morbid vitamin D deficiency‐related osteomalacia. It is cautiously suggested that 3b survived a subsequent trepanation performed to alleviate symptoms of their condition. Drawing on bioarchaeological approaches to past caregiving, we consider the consequences of these on 3b and how they were cared for, providing unique insight into social dynamics and community care in ancient Myanmar.