Final answer:
The talo-1st metatarsal angle, also known as Meary's angle, is a measurement used to assess the alignment between the talus and the first metatarsal bone of the foot. This measurement is important in diagnosing foot disorders, with an angle close to 0 degrees indicating normal alignment. Deviations from this can suggest potential foot issues.
Step-by-step explanation:
Talo-1st metatarsal angle, commonly referred to as Meary's angle, is a measurement used to evaluate the alignment of the foot's bones, specifically the talus and the first metatarsal bone. In a healthy foot, this angle is typically close to 0 degrees, indicating a normal alignment. Excessive angles may suggest conditions like flatfoot or high arches, which could lead to improper foot function and associated pain.
The metatarsal bones form the anterior half of the foot. The first metatarsal bone, related to the big toe, is shorter and thicker than the others, which are numbered 1-5 starting from the medial side of the foot. These bones articulate posteriorly with the cuneiform tarsal bones and anteriorly with the phalanges of the toes. The enlarged base of the fifth metatarsal provides for muscle attachments and can be felt as a bony bump on the lateral side of the foot.
Understanding the structure and alignment of the metatarsal bones, and how they articulate with other foot bones, is crucial in diagnosing and treating foot disorders. Metatarsalgia, for instance, can be caused by improper foot positions due to inappropriate footwear like high heels, leading to excessive pressure on the ball of the foot.