What actions occur at the metatarsophalangeal joints when the toes are flexed?

When the toes are flexed at the metatarsophalangeal joints, the primary movements involved are indeed flexion and extension. Flexion at these joints involves bending the toes, bringing the distal phalanges closer to the soles of the feet. This action primarily utilizes the flexor muscles, which contract to facilitate the movement.

Flexion is crucial in various activities such as walking and running, as it allows the toes to provide better grip and propulsion during the push-off phase. This movement is opposed by extension, which straightens the toes out again.

Understanding these movements is vital in the field of orthotics and prosthetics, as any misalignment or dysfunction at the metatarsophalangeal joints can significantly affect gait mechanics, balance, and overall foot function. Since other options refer to different motions that do not pertain to the flexion of the toes, they are not relevant in this context. Inversion and eversion relate to movements of the foot; abduction and adduction describe movements towards and away from the midline; and plantarflexion and dorsiflexion pertain to the ankle joint rather than the toes specifically.