Tarsometatarsal joints

The complex joints connecting the tarsal bones of the foot to the metatarsal bones.

Tarsometatarsal joints, often referred to as the Lisfranc joints, are a series of joints in the midfoot region where the tarsal bones articulate with the metatarsal bones. There are five tarsometatarsal joints corresponding to each of the five metatarsals, playing a crucial role in foot stability and movement. These joints allow for limited mobility while providing a structural foundation essential for a range of activities.

Terminologia Anatomica

articulationes tarsometatarseae

System

Skeletal system

Function

The primary function of the tarsometatarsal joints is to contribute to the foot's ability to bear weight during activities such as walking, running, and jumping. These joints facilitate the necessary range of motion for the forefoot to adapt to varying surfaces while maintaining balance and stability. Additionally, the tarsometatarsal joints provide crucial support to the arches of the foot, aiding in both shock absorption and propulsion. The flexibility permitted by these joints aids in the smooth transition of movement from heel strike to toe-off, which is essential for effective gait mechanics.

Location

The tarsometatarsal joints are located in the midfoot region, situated between the tarsal bones, including the cuboid and the three cuneiforms, and the base of the five metatarsal bones where they connect to the midfoot. Each joint varies in terms of movement capabilities; for instance, the first tarsometatarsal joint is typically more mobile than the others, playing a key role in the mechanics of the big toe. The proximity of these joints to the surrounding muscles, ligaments, and tendons further emphasizes their importance in overall foot function and biomechanical balance.

Did You Know?

The term 'Lisfranc injury' comes from a historical figure, Jacques Lisfranc de St. Martin, who described injuries to these joints during the Napoleonic Wars.
The tarsometatarsal joints are crucial for distributing weight across the foot, accommodating various activities and surfaces while preventing excessive strain on individual bones.
Some sports activities, especially those involving rapid direction changes, make these joints particularly vulnerable to injury, highlighting their role in athletic biomechanics.