Tuberosity Of The Fifth Metatarsal Bone, Superior View

Description

Tuberosity of the fifth metatarsal dominates the lateral margin of the forefoot in superior view, projecting proximolaterally from the expanded base of metatarsal V. The shaft extends distally and medially from this base, creating the familiar lateral border of the foot, while the dorsal surface is oriented superiorly toward the viewer. Medial to the tuberosity, the articular region for the cuboid sits on the proximal aspect of the base, and the adjacent fourth metatarsal base lies more medial and slightly anterior in the same plane. A bony landmark you can measure from. Avulsion fractures at the tuberosity (zone 1) and Jones fractures at the metaphyseal-diaphyseal junction (zone 2) are routinely conflated in clinical notes, but they differ in mechanism and healing risk, and the dorsal, superior perspective helps anchor that distinction to fixed surface anatomy. The insertion of fibularis (peroneus) brevis on the tuberosity explains the traction mechanism in inversion injuries, while the proximity of the cubometatarsal joint clarifies why swelling and pain may localize to the lateral midfoot. Crisp bony contours in a single fixed plane also support teaching of palpation landmarks and safe screw trajectory planning, since the tuberosity can obscure the true axis of the fifth metatarsal when viewed obliquely. Podiatry and orthopaedic foot and ankle courses can use this illustration when introducing fifth metatarsal fracture classification, tendon insertions, and lateral column anatomy, and it also fits radiology teaching files as a companion to AP and oblique foot radiographs. Medical publishers often place this type of superior-view bone plate alongside operative technique text for intramedullary fixation and for counseling athletes on return-to-play timelines after a Jones fracture. Anatomical accuracy verified by SciePro's Medical Advisory Board.