Where the proximal phalanx of big toe sits in the skeleton

The proximal phalanx of the big toe is the base segment, which joins the metatarsal. The big toe has two phalanges (proximal and distal); the other toes have three. It meets the head of the first metatarsal at the metatarsophalangeal joint and the distal phalanx at the big toe's single interphalangeal joint. It is the largest and thickest of the toe phalanges.

Frequently asked questions

Which part of the skeleton is the proximal phalanx of the big toe in?

The proximal phalanx of the big toe is one of the bones of the foot. The foot is made of seven tarsal bones, five metatarsals, fourteen phalanges and the sesamoid bones.

How many bones are in the foot?

Each foot has 26 bones: seven tarsal bones, five metatarsals and fourteen phalanges in the toes, plus small sesamoid bones.

Is there one proximal phalanx of the big toe or a pair?

The proximal phalanx of the big toe is paired: there is one on the left and one on the right, and this page covers both.

Which joints does the proximal phalanx of the big toe form?

Two: the metatarsophalangeal joint with the first metatarsal, and the interphalangeal joint with the distal phalanx. The big toe has only two phalanges, so it has only one interphalangeal joint.

Other bones of the foot

Bone counts

By region

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Related reading

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