The proximal articulation of the metatarsal bone is called __________.

Appeared in: NHM UP Staff Nurse-2023 shift 1st

Explanation

The metatarsal bones are the five long bones in the midfoot, connecting the ankle bones (tarsals) to the toe bones (phalanges).
The term 'proximal' refers to the part of a structure closer to the center of the body. The proximal end of a metatarsal is its base.
The bases of the metatarsals articulate with the distal row of tarsal bones (the three cuneiforms and the cuboid).
This articulation is correctly named the tarsometatarsal (TMT) joint, also known as the Lisfranc joint complex.

Option B: This is an anatomically incorrect term. The phalanges (toe bones) and tarsals (ankle bones) are separated by the metatarsals and do not form a direct joint.
Option C: This is the distal articulation of the metatarsal bone, where the head of the metatarsal connects with the proximal phalanx of the toe.
Option D: These are the joints formed between the bases of adjacent metatarsal bones (e.g., between the 2nd and 3rd metatarsals).

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Anatomy of the foot joints, specifically the articulations of the metatarsal bones as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Knowledge of the tarsometatarsal (TMT) joint is vital for recognizing a Lisfranc injury, a serious midfoot dislocation or fracture-dislocation that can lead to long-term disability if missed.
A key nursing assessment finding for a Lisfranc injury is plantar ecchymosis (bruising on the sole of the foot), along with severe pain and inability to bear weight. Prompt reporting is crucial.
What if? If the question had asked for the joint at the 'ball of the foot', the correct answer would be the metatarsophalangeal joint, which is where conditions like bunions and gout commonly manifest.

How to Approach the Question

First, break down the question: it asks for the 'proximal articulation' of the 'metatarsal bone'.
Define 'proximal': closer to the body's core. In the foot, this means towards the ankle.
Visualize or recall the order of bones in the foot: Tarsals (ankle) -> Metatarsals (midfoot) -> Phalanges (toes).
The metatarsal bone's proximal end must connect to the tarsal bones.
Analyze the options based on anatomical prefixes: 'Tarso-' (tarsal), 'Metatarso-' (metatarsal), 'Phalangeo-' (phalanx).
The joint between the tarsals and metatarsals is the 'tarsometatarsal' joint. This matches the proximal location, making it the correct choice.

Concept Tested & Keywords

Concept Tested: Anatomy of the foot joints, specifically the articulations of the metatarsal bones.
Stem keywords: proximal articulation, metatarsal bone
Lead-in keywords: is called

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E6 Osteology InderbirSingh 5e pp. 164-166, 163-165

E6 Physiology Ganong 27e Vol 2 Part 3 p. 32-34

Practise the full NHM UP Staff Nurse-2023 shift 1st

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.