Middle phalanx of second toe: anatomy, location and function

What it is

The middle phalanx of the second toe (second digit of the foot).

Location

Lies between the proximal and distal phalanges at the proximal and distal interphalangeal joints.

Function

Allows toe flexion; flexor digitorum brevis inserts on its sides.

Body system

Skeletal · paired (left and right)

FMA ID

FMA32643 (Foundational Model of Anatomy)

Key facts

• The middle slip of the extensor expansion inserts on its dorsal base, opposing flexor digitorum brevis.
• Its plantar skin is supplied by the medial plantar nerve, which serves the medial three and a half toes.

Clinical relevance

Hammer toe is a fixed flexion deformity at the proximal interphalangeal joint, most often affecting the second toe.

The nearest named structures in the 3D model, measured from the centre of each part:

• Distal phalanx of second toe · skeletal
• Middle phalanx of third toe · skeletal
• Distal phalanx of third toe · skeletal
• Distal phalanx of big toe · skeletal
• Proximal phalanx of second toe · skeletal
• Proximal phalanx of third toe · skeletal
• Distal phalanx of fourth toe · skeletal
• Middle phalanx of fourth toe · skeletal
• Proximal phalanx of big toe · skeletal
• Proximal phalanx of fourth toe · skeletal