Metatarsals
Metatarsals
The Metatarsals (/mɛtəˈtɑːrsəlz/) 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 ankle. This refers to their position in the foot, following the tarsal bones.
Anatomy
The metatarsals are numbered from one to five, starting on the medial side (side of the big toe). Each metatarsal consists of a base, a shaft, a neck, and a head. The base is the part of the bone that connects to the tarsal bones. The shaft is the long, slender part of the bone. The neck is the slightly narrower part that connects the shaft to the head, which is the rounded end of the bone that connects to the phalanges.
Function
The metatarsals play a crucial role in balance and propulsion during walking and running. They help distribute body weight evenly across the foot and are the main point of contact when pushing off the ground.
Related Terms
- Phalanges: The bones of the toes, which connect to the metatarsals.
- Tarsal bones: The seven bones in the hind- and mid-foot, which connect to the metatarsals.
- Metatarsalgia: A condition characterized by pain and inflammation in the metatarsal area.
- Metatarsal fractures: Breaks or cracks in one or more of the metatarsal bones.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Metatarsals
- Wikipedia's article - Metatarsals
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