Tarsal bones
Tarsal Bones
The Tarsal Bones (/ˈtɑːrsəl/; from Greek: ταρσός, tarsos, "flat of the foot") are a group of seven bones in the part of the foot known as the tarsus. These bones contribute to the structure and function of the ankle and foot.
Etymology
The term "tarsal" is derived from the Greek word tarsos, which means "flat of the foot". This is in reference to the flat, broad nature of these bones.
Anatomy
The tarsal bones consist of the following seven bones:
- Calcaneus: The largest tarsal bone, it forms the heel of the foot.
- Talus: This bone sits above the calcaneus and forms the lower part of the ankle joint.
- Navicular: Located in front of the talus.
- Cuboid: This bone is on the outer side of the foot.
- Medial cuneiform: The medial, or innermost, of the three cuneiform bones.
- Intermediate cuneiform: The middle cuneiform bone.
- Lateral cuneiform: The lateral, or outermost, of the three cuneiform bones.
Function
The tarsal bones work together to support the weight of the body and provide the necessary flexibility and stability for movement. They form joints with the metatarsal bones of the foot and the tibia and fibula of the lower leg, allowing for a range of motion in the foot and ankle.
Related Terms
- Ankle: The joint connecting the foot with the leg.
- Foot: The lower extremity of the leg, below the ankle.
- Metatarsal bones: The five long bones in the foot.
- Tibia: The larger of the two bones in the lower leg.
- Fibula: The smaller of the two bones in the lower leg.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Tarsal bones
- Wikipedia's article - Tarsal bones
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