Bones of the Foot Practice Quiz

The calcaneus is the largest tarsal bone and is commonly known as the heel bone. It plays a major role in weight-bearing and shock absorption during movement.

There are exactly 5 metatarsal bones in the human foot, one corresponding to each toe. They help form the structure of the forefoot and play a role in weight distribution.

The forefoot is comprised of the metatarsal bones and the phalanges, which make up the toes. This grouping is essential for understanding the structure and movement of the foot.

The calcaneus serves as the heel bone and provides critical support during locomotion. It also plays an important role in absorbing shock as forces are transmitted through the foot.

The hindfoot is composed of the calcaneus and the talus, both of which are essential for proper foot mechanics. The talus, in particular, plays a significant role in the ankle joint by articulating with the leg bones.

The talus is the critical bone that connects with the tibia and fibula to form the ankle joint, also known as the talocrural joint. This joint is essential for movements such as dorsiflexion and plantarflexion.

The human foot is anatomically divided into the hindfoot, midfoot, and forefoot. Each region contains distinct groups of bones and serves unique functions in support and movement.

The tarsal bones include the calcaneus, talus, navicular, cuboid, and three cuneiform bones. Metatarsals are not part of the tarsal group; they are located in the forefoot.

There are 14 phalanges in the human foot; this includes two phalanges in the big toe and three in each of the other toes. This anatomical detail is crucial for accurately understanding toe structure.

The navicular bone is often referred to as the keystone of the medial longitudinal arch due to its central location and supportive role. Its positioning is vital for maintaining the integrity of the arch during movement.

The calcaneus, being the heel bone, is frequently subjected to high-impact forces and is one of the most commonly fractured bones in the foot. Its role in weight-bearing makes it particularly vulnerable during traumatic injuries.

The navicular bone is positioned in the midfoot between the talus and the cuneiform/metatarsal bones. This strategic location contributes significantly to the stability and mobility of the foot.

An adult human foot contains 7 tarsal bones which include the calcaneus, talus, navicular, cuboid, and three cuneiform bones. This foundational information is key to understanding foot anatomy.

The medial cuneiform is the most medially positioned among the three cuneiform bones. Its location is essential for forming the medial longitudinal arch and contributes to overall foot stability.

The metatarsophalangeal joints are created by the articulation between the metatarsal bones and the phalanges. These joints are vital for flexion, extension, and overall toe movement during gait.

In foot inversion injuries, the calcaneus is prone to intra-articular fractures, particularly involving the subtalar joint. This type of fracture can affect the alignment and function of the hindfoot significantly.

The trabecular architecture within the calcaneus allows it to absorb and dissipate impact forces during walking and running. This built-in shock absorption mechanism is essential for reducing stress on the foot and lower limb.

The tarsal bones are arranged in an interlocking pattern supported by strong ligaments, which allows for both flexibility and stability. This arrangement permits essential movements while maintaining the structural integrity of the foot.

A disrupted medial longitudinal arch often leads to flatfoot, impacting the way weight is distributed across the foot during movement. Such alterations in biomechanics can result in pain and functional impairments over time.

The navicular bone acts as the keystone of the medial longitudinal arch, providing essential support and alignment. Its central location makes it a critical focus in reconstructive surgeries aimed at restoring proper foot biomechanics.