Metatarsophalangeal joints

Motion

The metatarsophalangeal joints are ellipsoid type synovial joints formed between the sphere shaped heads of the metatarsal bones and the bases of the proximal phalanges of the toes.The joints allow flexion and extension with restricted abduction, adduction, rotation and circumduction.

Stability

The fibrous capsule surrounding the joint plays a role in its stability.

Ligaments that are closely related to the capsule provide further support to the joints.
-Medial collateral ligament
-Lateral collateral ligament
-Plantar ligament (continuous with the deep transverse metatarsal ligaments which join the metatarsals to each other).

Muscles

1st phalanx (Hallux):

Extension:
Extensor hallucis longus
Extensor hallucis brevis

Flexion:
Flexor hallucis longus
Flexor hallucis brevis
Abductor hallucis

Abduction:
Abductor hallucis

Adduction:
Adductor hallucis

2nd, 3rd, and 4th phalanx:

Extension:
Extensor digitorum brevis
Extensor digitorum longus

Flexion:
Flexor digitorum brevis
Flexor digitorum longus
Flexor digitorum accessorius

Abduction:
Dorsal interossei

Adduction:
Plantar Interossei

5th phalanx:

Extension:
Extensor digitorum longus

Flexion:
Flexor digitorum longus
Flexor digiti minimi brevis
Flexor digitorum brevis
Flexor digitorum accessorius
Lumbricals

Abduction:
Abductor digiti minimi.

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