Tarsometatarsal is a medical term used to describe the joint between the tarsal bones of the foot and the metatarsal bones. The IPA phonetic transcription for this word is /tɑːsɵmiˌtætərsəl/. The word is formed by combining the words tarsus, meta, and tarsal, all of which relate to the bones of the foot. Pronouncing this word correctly requires emphasis on the syllables "ta", "so", "me", and "ta", with a slight pause in between them. Overall, proper spelling and pronunciation of medical terms like tarsometatarsal are important for accurate communication among healthcare professionals.
Tarsometatarsal is an adjective that refers to the region or articulation between the tarsal bones and the metatarsal bones in the human foot. It is derived from the combination of two anatomical terms: "tarsal," which relates to the bones of the ankle and hind part of the foot, and "metatarsal," which pertains to the long bones of the foot situated between the tarsal bones and the phalanges.
The term "Tarsometatarsal" is commonly used in the context of foot anatomy, medical diagnostics, and surgical procedures. It specifically describes the joint complex formed by the articulation of the five metatarsal bones with the three cuneiform bones and the cuboid bone in the midfoot. This region is vital for weight-bearing, transmitting forces from the hindfoot to the forefoot during locomotion.
Injuries or conditions that affect the tarsometatarsal region can lead to significant pain, deformity, and limited mobility. For instance, a fracture or dislocation in this area may result in a condition called Lisfranc injury, which can be caused by trauma or high impact sports. Tarsometatarsal osteoarthritis refers to the degeneration of this joint complex, causing joint stiffness, inflammation, and discomfort.
Understanding the anatomy and function of the tarsometatarsal region is crucial for healthcare professionals, including orthopedic surgeons, podiatrists, and physical therapists, in managing foot-related injuries, diagnosing conditions, and facilitating optimal treatment plans.
Relating to the tarsal and metatarsal bones; noting the articulations between the two sets of bones, and the ligaments in relation thereto.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "tarsometatarsal" is derived from four Greek roots: "tarsos", "meta", "tarsal", and "metatarsal".
1. "Tarsos" (ταρσός) means "flat of the foot" or "sole".
2. "Meta" (μετά) means "beyond" or "after".
3. "Tarsal" (ταρσαλός) refers to the bones of the tarsus, which is the cluster of bones in the foot between the leg bones and the metatarsus.
4. "Metatarsal" (μετατάρσιος) refers to the five bones of the metatarsus, which are the long bones in the midfoot.