Foot · Long bone
Metatarsal Bones (Midfoot)
The metatarsals are the five long bones of the midfoot, connecting the ankle bones to the toes. They form the ball of the foot and are common sites of stress fractures.
What it is
The metatarsals are five miniature long bones in the middle of the foot, one leading to each toe.
Where it is
The midfoot, between the ankle bones and the toes.
What it does
Form the arch and the ball of the foot, bear weight during standing and walking, and give the foot its spring during push-off.
Connections
Joints and connections
- Joints with the ankle (tarsal) bones
- Joints with the toe bones
When things go wrong
Common injuries and conditions
- Metatarsal stress fracture (from repetitive impact, e.g. running or marching)
- Fifth metatarsal fracture (a common foot injury)
Education and reference only. This explains the anatomy in plain terms; it is not a diagnosis. A severe injury, a visibly deformed limb, or the inability to move or bear weight needs urgent assessment — call 999 or go to A&E for a serious injury.
Did you know?
An interesting fact
A "march fracture" is a stress fracture of a metatarsal, historically named because it was common in soldiers after long marches.
Answers
Metatarsal Bones: frequently asked questions
What are the metatarsals?
The metatarsals are the five long bones of the midfoot that connect the ankle to the toes and form the ball of the foot.
Explore the foot
Related bones
Sources
Where this is drawn from
- NHS — Anatomy and body systems
- Gray's Anatomy for Students (Drake, Vogl, Mitchell)
- TeachMeAnatomy — skeletal system
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