METATARSAL BONES ANATOMY
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GENERAL STRUCTURE
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The metatarsal bones consist of five long bones numbered from the medial side of the foot. They form the framework of the midfoot and play a key role in weight distribution and foot mobility.
General Characteristics
- Five bones extending from the tarsal bones to the phalanges
- Each bone consists of:
- Body (shaft)
- Base (proximal end)
- Head (distal end)
- Numbered I-V from medial to lateral
- Essential for locomotion and balance
FIRST METATARSAL BONE
The first metatarsal bone is the shortest and thickest of the metatarsal bones. It bears the greatest amount of body weight during standing and walking.
Body
- Strong and prismoid in form
- Designed to bear significant weight
- More robust than other metatarsal bodies
Base
- Articulates mainly with the medial cuneiform bone
- Large and kidney-shaped articular surface
Tuberosity of First Metatarsal
- Located at the plantar angle of the base
- Rough, oval prominence
- Provides insertion for the tendon of the Peroneus longus muscle
SECOND METATARSAL BONE
The second metatarsal bone is the longest of the metatarsal bones. It is firmly anchored between the cuneiform bones, contributing to the stability of the foot.
Base
- Features four articular facets:
- One for the second cuneiform bone
- Two for the third metatarsal bone
- One for the first cuneiform bone
- Wedged between the first and third cuneiforms
- Most stable of all metatarsal bases
THIRD METATARSAL BONE
The third metatarsal bone has a triangular base and articulates with the third cuneiform bone proximally.
Base
- Triangular in shape
- Articulates proximally with the third cuneiform bone
- Two facets on the base for articulation with:
- Second metatarsal bone
- Fourth metatarsal bone
FOURTH METATARSAL BONE
The fourth metatarsal bone is smaller than the third metatarsal bone and articulates with the cuboid bone.
Base
- Has an oblique, quadrilateral facet
- Articulates with the cuboid bone
- Additional facets for adjacent metatarsals
FIFTH METATARSAL BONE
The fifth metatarsal bone is recognized by a rough eminence, the tuberosity, on the lateral side of its base.
Tuberosity of Fifth Metatarsal
- Prominent, rough eminence
- Located on the lateral side of the base
- Provides attachment for the tendon of the Peroneus brevis muscle
- Easily palpable landmark on the lateral foot
- Common site of avulsion fractures
METATARSAL BONE ANATOMY
Metatarsal Bone - Individual Structure, Preview from the app. Download 3D OSTEOLOGY for full 3D control—multiple views, x-ray mode, and unlimited zoom.
Each metatarsal bone shares a common structural pattern consisting of a base, body, and head, although specific features vary among the five bones.
Base of Metatarsal Bones
- The proximal end of each metatarsal
- Articulates with:
- Tarsal bones
- Adjacent (contiguous) metatarsal bones
- Facilitates foot stability and movement
- Wedge-shaped to interlock with neighboring bones
Body of Metatarsal Bones
- Prismoid in shape
- Tapers from the wider base to the narrower head
- Slightly convex longitudinally on the dorsal aspect
- Provides attachment for interosseous muscles
Head of Metatarsal Bones
- The distal end of each metatarsal
- Articulates with the proximal phalanx of the corresponding toe
- Features a convex articular surface on the plantar side
- Allows smooth joint movement during toe flexion and extension
- Forms the ball of the foot
BIBLIOGRAPHY
1. Henry G, Warren HL. Osteology. In: Anatomy of the Human Body. 20th ed. Philadelphia: Lea & Febiger; 1918. p. 129–97.