0 relating to the metatarsals (= the five long bones of the foot) and the phalanges (= the small bones of the toes):
metatarsophalangeal bursitis
a metatarsophal joint
Additionally, the interossei act as plantar flexors at the metatarsophalangeal joints.
Both these muscles are inserted with two heads proximally and distally to the first metatarsophalangeal joint.
Opposite the metatarsophalangeal articulation, the tendon gives off a thin prolongation on either side, to cover the surface of the joint.
Abduction is of little importance in the foot, but, together with the plantar interossei, the dorsal interossei also produce flexion at the metatarsophalangeal joints.
The human transverse tarsal joint of the midfoot transmits forces from the subtalar joint in the hindfoot to the forefoot joints (metatarsophalangeal and interphalangeal) and associated bones (metatarsals and phalanges).
Claw toe is another similar condition, with dorsiflexion of the proximal phalanx on the lesser metatarsophalangeal joint, combined with flexion of both the proximal and distal interphalangeal joints.
Furthermore, walking in shoes with stiffer midsole appears to significantly reduce the energy dissipated at the metatarsophalangeal joints and aid in improving jumping performances and running economy.
