Transverse Arch
/tɹænzvɝs/ /ɑɹtʃ/
1. [noun] the foot has three arches: two longitudinal (medial and lateral) arches and one anterior transverse arch (Fig
Source: https://teachmeanatomy.info/lower-limb/bones/bones-of-the-foot-tarsals-metatarsals-and-phalanges/
2. [noun] they are formed by the tarsal and metatarsal bones, and supported by ligaments and tendons in the foot. Their shape allows them to act in the same way as a spring , bearing the weight of the body and absorbing the shock produced during locomotion. The flexibility conferred to the foot by these arches facilitates functions such as walking and running. In this article, we examine the anatomy of the arches of the foot – their bony and ligamentous structure, the supporting tendons, and their clinical correlations. The transverse arch is located in the coronal plane of the foot. It is formed by the metatarsal bases, the cuboid and the three cuneiform bones. It has: Muscular support : Fibularis longus and tibialis posterior. Ligamentous support : Plantar ligaments (in particular the long plantar, short plantar and plantar calcaneonavicular ligaments) and deep transverse metatarsal ligaments. Other support: Plantar aponeurosis. Bony support : The wedged shape of the bones of the arch. The medial arch is the higher of the two longitudinal arches. It is formed by the calcaneus, talus, navicular, three cuneiforms and first three metatarsal bones . It is supported by: Muscular support : Tibialis anterior and posterior, fibularis longus, flexor digitorum longus, flexor hallucis, and the intrinsic foot muscles Ligamentous support : Plantar ligaments (in particular the long plantar, short plantar and plantar calcaneonavicular ligaments), medial ligament of the ankle joint. Bony support : Shape of the bones of the arch. Other : Plantar aponeurosis. The lateral arch is the flatter of the two longitudinal arches, and lies on the ground in the standing position. It is formed by the calcaneus, cuboid and 4th and 5th metatarsal bones. It is supported by: Muscular support : Fibularis longus, flexor digitorum longus, and the intrinsic foot muscles. Ligamentous support : Plantar ligaments (in particular the long plantar, short plantar and plantar calcaneonavicular ligaments). Bony support : Shape of the bones of the arch. Other : Plantar aponeurosis
Source: https://teachmeanatomy.info/lower-limb/bones/bones-of-the-foot-tarsals-metatarsals-and-phalanges/
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the transverse arch work together with the longitudinal arches during everyday activities like walking or running?
The transverse arch, spanning the front half of the foot, acts like a natural spring. It works with the medial and lateral arches to help distribute weight, absorb shock, and maintain balance while performing routine actions such as walking or running.
In what way does knowing the Latin origin of the term 'transverse' help understand its role in foot anatomy?
The term 'transverse' comes from Latin, meaning 'across.' This describes the arch’s orientation across the foot, linking the metatarsal bases and tarsal bones. Recognizing this helps differentiate its function from the forward-running longitudinal arches.