The transverse metatarsal ligament is a narrow band which runs across and connects together the heads of all the metatarsal bones. It is blended anteriorly with the plantar (glenoid) ligaments of the metatarsophalangeal articulations.

Transverse metatarsal ligament
Details
Identifiers
Latinligamentum metatarsale transversum
TA98A03.6.10.804
TA21967
FMA44490
Anatomical terminology

Its plantar surface is concave where the Flexor tendons run below it. Above it, the tendons of the Interossei pass to their insertions.

Its homologue in the hand is the transverse metacarpal ligament, which connects the metacarpals to each other.

Clinical significance

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The dorsal digital nerves of the foot may be compressed by the transverse metatarsal ligament.[1] This causes Morton's neuroma, which causes foot pain.[1]

See also

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References

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  This article incorporates text in the public domain from page 359 of the 20th edition of Gray's Anatomy (1918)

  1. ^ a b Mischitz, Madeleine; Zeitlinger, Stefan; Mischlinger, Johannes; Rab, Matthias (2020-06-01). "Nerve decompression according to A.L. Dellon in Morton's neuroma - A retrospective analysis". Journal of Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgery. 73 (6): 1099–1104. doi:10.1016/j.bjps.2020.01.008. ISSN 1748-6815. PMID 32171681. S2CID 212728728.