Phalanges
Phalanges
Phalanges (pronunciation: /fəˈlændʒiːz/) are the bones that make up the fingers of the hand and the toes of the foot in most vertebrates. There are 56 phalanges in the human body, with fourteen on each hand and foot.
Etymology
The term "phalanges" is derived from the Greek word "phalanx" which means "line of soldiers". This is due to the arrangement of these bones in parallel rows.
Structure
Each finger and toe, except the thumb and big toe, have three phalanges: the proximal, middle, and distal phalanges. The thumb and big toe only have a proximal and distal phalanx.
- Proximal phalanges: These are the phalanges closest to the hand or foot. They are connected to the metacarpals in the hand and the metatarsals in the foot.
- Middle phalanges: These are the phalanges located in the middle of each finger and toe, except for the thumb and big toe which do not have a middle phalanx.
- Distal phalanges: These are the phalanges furthest from the hand or foot. They are the tip of each finger and toe.
Function
Phalanges play a crucial role in the dexterity and functionality of the hands and feet. They allow for a wide range of movements such as grasping, pinching, and walking.
Related Terms
- Metacarpals: These are the bones in the hand that the proximal phalanges connect to.
- Metatarsals: These are the bones in the foot that the proximal phalanges connect to.
- Phalanx bone: This is another term for a phalange.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Phalanges
- Wikipedia's article - Phalanges
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