Metacarpal 5 (left) — fifth metacarpal (little finger)

Function

The most mobile metacarpal after the thumb's — its loose basal joint lets the little finger cup the palm in grip.

Landmarks

• Base
• Shaft
• Head (knuckle)

Articulations (joints)

• Hamate
• Adjacent metacarpals (interosseous ligaments)
• Proximal phalanx of the little (metacarpophalangeal joint)

Clinical relevance

Boxer's fracture — a fifth metacarpal neck fracture — is the classic punch injury; considerable volar angulation (often up to 40° or more) is compatible with good function.