phalangeal

Phalangeal is an adjective relating to a phalanx, the bones that form the digits of the hands and feet. The phalanges (singular phalanx) function alongside the metacarpal bones of the hand and the metatarsal bones of the foot to provide structure and movement for fingers and toes. The term derives from Greek phalanx, meaning a line or battle array, reflecting their arrangement in the digits.

In the human hand, each finger (excluding the thumb) typically contains three phalanges: proximal, middle, and distal. The thumb has two phalanges (proximal and distal). In the foot, most toes also include proximal, middle, and distal phalanges, while the hallux (big toe) generally has two. Each phalanx has a base (proximal end) that articulates with a metacarpal or metatarsal, a shaft, and a head at its distal end that forms joints with the adjacent phalanx. The joints are the metacarpophalangeal joints between the metacarpals and the proximal phalanges, and the interphalangeal joints (proximal and distal) between phalanges.

Phalangeal bones vary in size and shape to accommodate grip and locomotion. They are commonly involved in injuries and conditions such as distal phalanx fractures, mallet finger, and jersey finger, as well as fingertip injuries and nail bed trauma.

See also: Phalanx; Interphalangeal joint; Metacarpophalangeal joint; Osteology.