Toe

A toe is one of the digits at the end of the foot. In humans, each foot typically has five toes: the hallux (big toe) and four lesser toes. Toes aid in balance, stability, and propulsion during standing, walking, and running, especially during the push-off phase of gait.

Anatomy and structure: Each toe contains phalanges. The hallux has two phalanges (proximal and distal), while the other toes have three (proximal, middle, and distal). The joints include the metatarsophalangeal joints connecting the toes to the metatarsal bones and the interphalangeal joints between the phalanges. Muscles controlling toe movement include intrinsic foot muscles and extrinsic leg muscles, with tendons guiding flexion and extension.

Nerves and blood supply: Sensation to the toes is primarily via the medial and lateral plantar nerves, branches of the tibial nerve. Blood supply comes from the posterior tibial artery (giving plantar arteries) and the dorsalis pedis artery on the foot’s dorsum.

Nail and skin: Each toe bears a toenail, which grows more slowly than fingernails. The nail plate protects the dorsal toe tip, but nails can be prone to conditions such as ingrown nails and fungal infections.

Common conditions and injuries: Ingrown toenails (onychocryptosis) occur when nail edges irritate the surrounding skin. Trauma can cause subungual hematomas. Deformities like bunions (hallux valgus) or hammer toes can affect toe alignment and function.

Function and evolution: Toes contribute to balance, weight distribution, and propulsion during gait. In humans, the structure supports efficient bipedal locomotion, with the big toe playing a key role in push-off.