Metatarsal
Metatarsal
The Metatarsal (pronounced: meh-tuh-TAR-suhl) 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.
Etymology
The term "metatarsal" is derived from the Greek words "meta," meaning after, and "tarsos," meaning flat surface. This refers to their position in the foot, following the tarsal bones.
Anatomy
The metatarsals are numbered from the medial side (the side of the big toe): the first, second, third, fourth, and fifth metatarsal. They are a part of the appendicular skeleton and contribute to the body's ability to balance and distribute weight in both stationary and dynamic postures.
Related Terms
- Metatarsalgia: This is a condition marked by pain and inflammation in the ball of your foot. The term "metatarsalgia" is derived from metatarsal (the bones in the ball of the foot) and the Greek word "algos," which means pain.
- Metatarsal Fractures: These are common injuries that involve a break in one or more of the five metatarsal bones.
- Metatarsus Adductus: This is a common foot deformity noted at birth that causes the front half of the foot, or forefoot, to turn inward.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Metatarsal
- Wikipedia's article - Metatarsal
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