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metatarsophalangeal

metatarsophalangeal

1 9.9
Of the joints where the long bones of the foot meet the toes
  • adjective
  • /ˌmɛtəˌtɑrsəˈfælɪnˌdʒiəl/
  • Specialized
translation icon : metatarsofalángico
  • The doctor explained that the metatarsophalangeal joint is crucial for walking and running.
  • metatarsophalangeal joint

Examples

  • Some are of a "rocker design," that is, with a bottom shape similar to the sole of a clog so that roll-off of the forefoot occurs behind the metatarsophalangeal joint of the foot.

    Academic text (1994)
  • Injuries to the metatarsophalangeal area can lead to foot pain and difficulty in movement.

  • Special shoes can help relieve pressure on the metatarsophalangeal joints during physical activities.

Surface Forms

Morphology

metatarsophalangeal = metatarsal + phalanx (semi-transparent) = metatarso + phalange + al

Built from anatomical combining forms (metatarso- + phalange + -al); the structure is clear but the components are specialized medical terms, so general learners need domain knowledge.

Etymology

Metatarsophalangeal comes from three parts: meta- meaning 'after', tarso- meaning 'foot', and -phalangeal from phalanx meaning 'toe or finger bone'. So the adjective describes the area or joint where the long bones of the foot meet the toe bones.