Fourth tarsometatarsal joint

The fourth tarsometatarsal joint is the articulation between the base of the fourth metatarsal and the cuboid bone.

This joint is part of the lateral column of the foot and is characterized by a relatively flat articular surface, which allows for greater mobility compared to the medial tarsometatarsal joints. The joint is stabilized by dorsal, plantar, and interosseous ligaments, but these are less robust than those of the medial column, contributing to increased motion and susceptibility to injury in this region.

The fourth metatarsal base articulates primarily with the cuboid, but may also have a small facet with the lateral cuneiform. The articular surface of the cuboid for the fourth metatarsal is narrower and taller medially, and wider and shorter laterally, as demonstrated in cadaveric studies.The joint capsule is reinforced by the aforementioned ligaments, and the lateral tarsometatarsal joints (fourth and fifth) share similar structural features, including a relatively high degree of motion during gait.