What are the foot bones called?

The long bones of the foot is called the metatarsals. Gray's Anatomy (1918) describes it as five long bones forming the middle of the foot.

What it is

  • Five long bones forming the middle of the foot.
  • Numbered I to V, starting from the big toe.
  • Together with the tarsals they form the arches of the foot.

Where it is

  • Between the tarsals of the hindfoot and the phalanges of the toes.
  • The heads form the ball of the foot.
  • Their bases meet the cuneiforms and cuboid.

Source:

Last verified: 2026-07-18

  • Best Anatomy Answers is an educational reference about human anatomy. It is not medical advice — for any health concern, talk to a licensed medical professional.

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