Metatarsals vs. Phalanges: Foot Bone Anatomy

Metatarsals and phalanges are distinct bones of the foot.

Metatarsals (5)

• Long bones connecting tarsus (midfoot) to phalanges.
• Numbered I-V medial to lateral (1st = great toe side).
• 1st metatarsal: largest, bears most weight; sesamoids plantarly.
• 5th metatarsal: base (tuberosity) common fracture site (Jones, avulsion).

Phalanges (14)

• Toe bones: 3 per toe (proximal, middle, distal) except hallux (great toe) which has 2 (proximal, distal).
• Numbered 1-3 proximal to distal.

Functional Difference

• Metatarsals: weight-bearing, leverage, arch maintenance.
• Phalanges: toe flexion/extension, grip, balance fine-tuning.

Common Pathology

• Metatarsal stress fractures (2nd, 3rd), 5th metatarsal fractures.
• Phalangeal fractures (stubbed toe), hammer toe, mallet toe, claw toe.