Metatarsals are the five long bones that form the middle part of your foot, connecting your ankle bones (tarsals) to your toes (phalanges). They are numbered one through five, starting from the big toe (hallux) and moving towards the little toe. Think of them as the structural support for the arch of your foot and the base of your toes.
Understanding Metatarsal Bones
- Location: Situated between the tarsal bones (in your ankle) and the phalanges (your toes).
- Number: There are five metatarsal bones in each foot.
- Function: These bones provide support, stability, and help with movement and weight distribution when you walk or run. They are crucial for the flexibility and strength of the foot.
- Connection: The metatarsals connect distally to the phalanges at the metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joints and proximally to the tarsal bones at the tarsometatarsal (TMT) joints. The distal aspects of the cuneiform (medial, intermediate, and lateral) bones and cuboid bone connect to the base of the five phalanges of the foot.
Common Issues Related to Metatarsals
Metatarsals are susceptible to injury, especially fractures, which are commonly caused by impact or overuse. Symptoms of a metatarsal fracture can include immediate pain, tenderness, swelling, and difficulty walking. Treatment may vary from rest and immobilization to surgery, depending on the severity of the fracture.
Metatarsal Boots
A specialized type of safety footwear, metatarsal boots, provide extra protection to the metatarsal bones against potential injuries from falling objects or compression.
