Metatarsophalangeal joint

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The metatarsophalangeal joints (MTPJ) are the articulations in the forefoot between the heads of the metatarsals and the proximal phalanges ¹.

Gross anatomy

The joint is formed by the articulation of the metatarsals with their adjacent proximal phalanges. They are condyloid synovial joints which allow for flexion, extension and limited adduction and abduction ².

First toe

The metatarsophalangeal joint of the first toe is stabilised by a capsuloligamentous complex and collection of tendons. The capsuloligamentous complex is comprised of:

fibrous capsule
collateral ligamentous complex
sesamoid-phalangeal ligaments (medial and lateral)
intersesamoid ligament
plantar plate
extensor hood

Additional supporting structures:

f lexor hallucis brevis (medial and lateral heads)
f lexor hallucis longus
a bductor hallucis
a dductor hallucis
e xtensor hallucis longus
e xtensor hallucis brevis

Lesser metatarsophalangeal joints

The lesser (second-to-fourth) metatarsophalangeal joints also have a capsuloligamentous complex which is comprised of ³:

fibrous capsule
collateral ligamentous complexes (proper and accessory)
plantar plate

Additional supporting structures:

Related pathology

turf toe: first MTPJ capsuloligamentous complex can be injured in extreme traumatic dorsiflexion
synovitis
plantar plate tears

~~-<a href="/articles/flexor-digiti-minimi-brevis-muscle">f</a><a href="/articles/flexor-digiti-minimi-brevis-muscle">lexor digiti minimi brevis</a>~~
+<a href="/articles/flexor-digiti-minimi-brevis-foot">f</a><a href="/articles/flexor-digiti-minimi-brevis-muscle">lexor digiti minimi brevis</a>

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