Articular Capsules of Metatarsophalangeal Joints
Capsulae articulares articulationum metatarsophalangealium
Read moreStructure
The articular capsules of the metatarsophalangeal joints are loosely attached to the articular margins of the bones. They are composed of two layers. The external layer, the fibrous membrane, is composed of dense fibrous tissue. The internal layer, the synovial membrane, lines the joint cavity and is composed of loose connective tissue.
Anatomical Relations
The articular capsules of the metatarsophalangeal joints are reinforced laterally and medially by the collateral ligaments, on its plantar aspect by the plantar and deep transverse metatarsal ligaments, and dorsally by the extensor tendons.
Function
The articular capsule of the metatarsophalangeal joints ensures that the joint is sealed, thus, keeping the lubricating synovial fluid within the joint. It provides passive stability to the joint by limiting the joint movement. Additionally, it provides active stability but containing numerous proprioceptive nerve endings which relay mechanical information back to the central nervous system (Ralphs and Benjamin, 1994).
References
Ralphs, J. R. and Benjamin, M. (1994) 'The joint capsule: structure, composition, ageing and disease', Journal of Anatomy, 184(Pt 3), pp. 503-509.
