Phalanges

A phalanx is the name that is commonly given to the bones that form fingers and toes. In humans, the thumb and the big toe have two phalanges, and the other fingers and toes consist of three phalanges.

Anatomy of the Phalanges

Phalanges of the hand are also known as finger bones. They are fourteen in number, three for each finger and two for the thumb. They consist of a body and two extremities.

• The body - Its sides are marked by rough areas which give attachment to the fibrous sheaths of the flexor tendons.
• Proximal extremities of the bones of the first row, and
• Distal extremities. They are smaller than the proximal.

Phalanges of the foot correspond to the phalanges of the hand in terms of number and general arrangement. They differ in size and their bodies are reduced in size especially in the first row.

• First row: The body of each is compressed from side to side, convex above and concave below.
• Second row: They are very small and short but broader than those of the first row phalanges of the foot.

Phalanges are classified as long bones. They do not have individual names but are named after the digit and their distance from the body.

• Distal phalanges are the tips of the fingers and toes,
• Proximal phalanges are closest to the hand and foot and articulate the metacarpals of the hand and the metatarsals of the foot,
• Intermediate phalanges are between the distal and proximal. The thumb and big toe do not have middle phalanges.

Conditions that affect Phalanges

Toes and fingers are very important for humans to be able to work efficiently. They are affected by a number of diseases and can also be the means by which harmful bacteria enters our bodies. Some of the common conditions that affect phalanges include:

• Osteoporosis - Bones become brittle and liable to fracture,
• Arthritis - Inflammation of the joints. One can have osteo arthritis or rheumatoid arthritis,
• Skin infections - Especially prevalent if one has poor hygiene

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