Which bones form the Lateral column of the foot?

• A. Inside of the foot used for balance; composed of the talus, navicular, 3 cuneiforms, 1st-3rd metatarsals and phalanges
• B. Outside of the foot used for support; composed of the calcaneus, cuboid, 4th & 5th metatarsals & phalanges
• C. Bones of the toes
• D. Tendon in the ankle

Answer: (B)

The lateral column is the outer set of foot bones that provide lateral stability and help with propulsion. It includes the calcaneus (heel), the cuboid on the outer midfoot, and the fourth and fifth metatarsals with their corresponding phalanges. This arrangement forms the outside edge of the foot and supports weight transfer toward the outer side during movement. The inner (medial) column, by contrast, is made up of the talus, navicular, three cuneiforms, and the first through third metatarsals with their phalanges, which is why describing the outside bones as the lateral column is the correct choice. The toes alone or a tendon in the ankle do not constitute a column of foot bones.