doigt

Doigt is the French term for a finger, one of the digits at the end of the hand. In human anatomy, a doigt consists of phalanges connected to the metacarpal bones by joints. With the exception of the thumb, each digit contains three phalanges: proximal, middle, and distal. The thumb is composed of two phalanges and is opposable, a feature that enables precision grip and dexterity.

Anatomical structure and movement: Each doigt is supplied by digital nerves that provide sensation and by arteries that form the palmar arches. The muscles that move the doigts include extrinsic flexors and extensors in the forearm and intrinsic hand muscles, such as the lumbricals and interossei, which assist fine movements, finger independence, and grip. Joints include the metacarpophalangeal joints and the interphalangeal joints, allowing bending, straightening, and rotational adjustments.

Variations and clinical aspects: Most people have five digits per hand. Congenital variations include polydactyly (extra digits) and oligodactyly (fewer digits) or syndactyly (fusion of doigts). Finger injuries, such as fractures of the phalanges, tendon injuries, and nerve damage, are common clinical concerns and can affect sensation and dexterity. Finger function is often assessed by grip strength, sensation, and range of motion, including fingertip sensitivity critical for fine manipulation.

Terminology and usage: In French, the four fingers are commonly named index, majeur, annulaire, and petit doigt, while the thumb is called pouce. Doigt is cognate with the English word digit and appears in medical, anatomical, and everyday contexts.