Metatarsophalangeal joints

The metatarsophalangeal joints are identified in a very similar way to the interphalangeal joints. One hand should stabilize the metatarsal just proximal to its head while the other moves the proximal phalanx through dorsiflexion/plantarflexion. The metatarsophalangeal joint may then be identified both dorsally and plantarly. Each metatarsophalangeal joint is supported by a plantar plate, or plantar metatarsophalangeal ligament, medial and lateral collateral ligaments and the deep transverse metatarsal ligament.