Fourth metatarsal

Os metatarsi IV

SkeletalSkeletonLegLeft and right

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What it is
Long bone of the forefoot behind the fourth toe, with a wedge-shaped base, slender shaft and rounded head at the ball of the foot.
Function
Forms a spoke of the foot's arches and a lever for walking.
Size
≈ 78 mm long
Clinical note
Bunions (hallux valgus) develop at the first metatarsal head.

Nearby skeletal structures Cuboid, Fifth metatarsal, First metatarsal, Intermediate cuneiform, Lateral cuneiform, Proximal phalanx of the fourth toe, Proximal phalanx of the little toe, Proximal phalanx of the third toe, Second metatarsal, Third metatarsal