METATARSALS
The metatarsal bones are the five thin long bones in the forefoot. These bones are located between the ankle or back part of the foot and the toes. These bones are numbered from one to five, from big toe to the fifth toe. Each metatarsal bone joins to the specific toe.
The first metatarsal is the shortest and the thickest. It connects to great toe (thumb of the feet).
The second metatarsal is the longest of the metatarsals and connects to the second toe.
The third metatarsal bone has a triangular base and connects to the third toe.
The fourth metatarsal is smaller than the third.
The fifth metatarsal is recognized by a rough eminence called a tubercle. It connects to the last toe.
Published December 20, 2021
Function
These set of bones in feet balance stability and functionality. The bones in association with other bones allow movement and rotation of feet in different directions. They contribute to the formation of arch of the foot.
Disease/ Injury/ Fracture
Stress fractures usually appear in athletes or footballs players.
Interesting facts
Metatarsals are comparatively smaller bones but large amount of body weight is carried by metatarsals while standing, walking and running. High heel footwear without a good arch support leads to pain in the foot.
