Metatarsal bones

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

(Redirected from Metatarsi)

Metatarsal Bones

The metatarsal bones are a group of five long bones in the foot, located between the tarsal bones of the hind- and mid-foot and the phalanges of the toes. Lacking individual names, they are numbered from the medial side (side of big toe): the first, second, third, fourth, and fifth metatarsal (often depicted with Roman numerals).

Structure[edit | edit source]

Each metatarsal bone is a long bone, being broad and concave at the proximal end, tapering down to the distal end. The body of the metatarsal is prismoid in form, tapers gradually from the tarsal to the phalangeal extremity, and is curved longitudinally, so as to be concave below, slightly convex above.

First Metatarsal[edit | edit source]

The first metatarsal bone is the thickest and shortest of the metatarsal bones. It is designed to bear more weight than the other metatarsals, and its unique structure is adapted to take on this role.

Second to Fifth Metatarsals[edit | edit source]

The second metatarsal bone, third metatarsal bone, fourth metatarsal bone, and fifth metatarsal bone are all long bones, each with a base, shaft, and head. The base is the part of the bone that is closest to the ankle, the shaft is the long, slender part of the bone, and the head is at the end of the bone that is closest to the toe.

Function[edit | edit source]

The metatarsal bones are crucial for balance and propulsion during walking and running. They work together with the tarsal bones to provide a stable platform for the body, and with the phalanges to provide leverage for the toes.

Clinical Significance[edit | edit source]

Injuries to the metatarsal bones are common and can include fractures, dislocations, and stress fractures. These injuries are often caused by direct trauma, overuse, or systemic diseases such as osteoporosis.

See Also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]


WikiMD
Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD

Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Let Food Be Thy Medicine
Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates

Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD