Third tarsometatarsal joint

The third tarsometatarsal joint is the synovial articulation between the base of the third metatarsal and the lateral (third) cuneiform bone. This joint is part of the central column of the Lisfranc joint complex, which provides midfoot stability through its osseous and ligamentous architecture.

The articular surfaces are relatively flat and congruent, with the third metatarsal base fitting against the lateral cuneiform. The joint is reinforced dorsally and plantarly by tarsometatarsal ligaments, with additional support from intermetatarsal ligaments connecting adjacent metatarsal bases. The plantar ligaments are generally thicker and stronger than the dorsal ligaments, contributing to resistance against plantar avulsion injuries.

The third tarsometatarsal joint is less mobile than the lateral column (fourth and fifth TMT joints) and, along with the second TMT joint, forms a relatively rigid central axis for the foot.This rigidity is biomechanically important for load transfer during gait and for maintaining the transverse and longitudinal arches of the foot.