The metatarsophalangeal articulations are the joints between the metatarsal bones of the foot and the proximal bones (proximal phalanges

Proximal phalanges

Proximal phalanges are bones found in the limbs of most vertebrates. In humans, they are the bones at the base of a toe or finger, the prominent, knobby ends of which are often called the knuckles....

) of the toe

Toe

Toes are the digits of the foot of a tetrapod. Animal species such as cats that walk on their toes are described as being digitigrade. Humans, and other animals that walk on the soles of their feet, are described as being plantigrade; unguligrade animals are those that walk on hooves at the tips of...

s. They are condyloid joint

Condyloid joint

In a condyloid joint an ovoid articular surface, or condyle, is received into an elliptical cavity. This permits movement in two planes, allowing flexion, extension, adduction, abduction, and circumduction.-Examples:Examples include:* the wrist-joint* metacarpophalangeal joints*...

s meaning an elliptical or rounded surface (of the metatarsal bones) come close to the shallow cavities (of the proximal phalanges).

The ligaments are the plantar and two collateral.

Movements

The movements permitted in the metatarsophalangeal articulations are flexion

Flexion

In anatomy, flexion is a position that is made possible by the joint angle decreasing. The skeletal and muscular systems work together to move the joint into a "flexed" position. For example the elbow is flexed when the hand is brought closer to the shoulder...

, extension

Extension (kinesiology)

In kinesiology, extension is a movement of a joint that results in increased angle between two bones or body surfaces at a joint. Extension usually results in straightening of the bones or body surfaces involved. For example, extension is produced by extending the flexed elbow. Straightening of...

, abduction

Anatomical terms of motion

The movement of body structures is accomplished by the contraction of muscles. Muscles may move parts of the skeleton relatively to each other, or may move parts of internal organs relatively to each other. All such movements are classified by the directions in which the affected structures are moved...

, and adduction

Adduction

Adduction is a movement which brings a part of the anatomy closer to the middle sagittal plane of the body. It is opposed to abduction.-Upper limb:* of arm at shoulder ** Subscapularis** Teres major** Pectoralis major** Infraspinatus...

.

See also

• Turf toe (metatarsalphalangeal joint sprain)
  Turf toe
  A metatarsalphalangeal joint sprain is an injury to the joint and connective tissue between the foot and one of the toes. When the big toe is involved, it is known as "turf toe".-Causes:...
  
  
• Bunion (hallux valgus)

External links

• Diagram at webmd.com