Bones of the foot

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The human foot contains 26 bones that are divided into 3 groups. The tarsal bones are the most proximal ones, consisting of 7 irregularly shaped bones homologous to the carpal bones of the hand. Next are the metatarsal bones which are 5 long bones that are equivalent to the metacarpals​​​​​​​ of the hand. Lastly, we have the phalanges of the foot that form the toes in an identical manner that the phalanges of the hand form the fingers. The lateral four toes are made up of three phalanges (proximal, middle, and distal), while the great toe consists of only two phalanges (proximal and distal).

The foot is also traditionally divided into 3 regions; the hindfoot, midfoot and forefoot. The tarsal bones are contained in the hindfoot and midfoot, while the metatarsals and phalanges lie in the forefoot.

If you want to learn more details about the cuneiform and cuboid bones, be sure to check out the videos below.

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