Falangeaalsed

Falangeaalsed is an Estonian adjective meaning related to the phalanges, the bones that form the fingers and toes. In humans, each hand and foot contains 14 phalanges. The four fingers (digits II–V) each have three phalanges: proximal, middle, and distal. The thumb and the big toe have two phalanges: proximal and distal. Phalanges together with metacarpal or metatarsal bones form the digits and enable grasping and locomotion.

In anatomical usage, falangeaalsed structures include the phalangeal bones themselves and the joints between them and adjacent bones. The joints between phalanges are the interphalangeal joints, comprising proximal interphalangeal (PIP) and distal interphalangeal (DIP) joints in the fingers and toes. Between the phalanges and the metacarpal or metatarsal bones are the metacarpophalangeal joints (MCP) in the hand and the metatarsophalangeal joints (MTP) in the foot. These joints are essential for flexion, extension, and fine motor movements.

Falangeaalsed terms are common in medical and anatomical descriptions, including references to phalangeal fractures, dislocations, and other injuries or developmental conditions affecting the phalanges or their joints. Imaging and radiography are typical methods for evaluating phalangeal anatomy and pathology. The concept also applies to non-human vertebrates, where analogous phalangeal bones contribute to limb function.