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Distal phalanges - foot
Other Terms:
Phalanx distalis pedis
Type
long
Description
These tiny bones form the pyramidal distal tip to the toes. The first one is much larger than the lateral four. Each forms a broad base for articulation with the phalanx proximal to it, a short tapering shaft, and an expanded end with a rough tuberosity on its plantar surface.
Etymology
Phalanges, plural for phalanx, is a Greek term referring to a line of heavy-armed infantry drawn up in close order to do battle. The parallel digital rays resembled these lines of battle.
Articulations
The distal phalanges articulate with one bone, the corresponding phalanx proximal to it.
Ossification
Each bone ossifies from two centers. The first center appears distally during the second to third fetal month. A second center appears, usually, during the sixth year. The two centers unite somewhere between the seventeenth and eighteenth year.
Latin
Phalanx distalis pedis
