Phalanges

The bones that make up the fingers of the hands and the toes of the feet.

Phalanges are the small bones located in the digits of the hands and feet. Each finger and toe contains a series of phalanges that contribute to the structure and function of the extremities. In humans, the fingers contain three phalanges each, except for the thumb, which has two. The toes also have three phalanges, except for the large toe, which has two.

Terminologia Anatomica

phalanges

System

Skeletal system

Function

Phalanges play a vital role in fine motor skills and gripping movements. In the hands, they enable a wide range of motion, allowing for the dexterous manipulation of objects – a crucial function in tasks such as writing, typing, and playing musical instruments. The arrangement of the phalanges facilitates opposability in the thumb, which is essential for grasping and holding items. In the feet, phalanges contribute to balance and stability while walking, running, and standing. They help distribute weight evenly across the foot, adapting to different surfaces and conditions, which is vital for mobility and posture.

Location

The phalanges are located at the distal parts of the limbs. In the hands, the proximal phalanges are immediately adjacent to the metacarpal bones, forming the base of each finger. These connect to the intermediate phalanges, which in turn articulate with the distal phalanges, the tip of each finger. In the feet, a similar structure exists, where the proximal phalanges connect to the metatarsals in the midfoot, leading to the intermediate and distal phalanges that form the toes. The phalanges thus lie at the end of the skeletal structure of both the hands and feet, allowing for complex movements.

Did You Know?

The human hand contains 14 phalanges – three in each finger and two in the thumb.
The foot has 14 phalanges as well – three in each toe and two in the big toe.
Phalanges are among the most frequently fractured bones due to their exposure and involvement in everyday activities.