Proximal phalanx of little toe: anatomy, location and function

What it is

The first and longest phalanx of the little toe (fifth digit of the foot).

Location

Its base articulates with the head of the metatarsal at the metatarsophalangeal joint, and its head with the middle phalanx.

Function

Forms the base of the toe and helps with push-off and balance during walking.

Body system

Skeletal · paired (left and right)

FMA ID

FMA32641 (Foundational Model of Anatomy)

Key facts

• The four lesser toes each have three phalanges; the big toe has two.
• Abductor digiti minimi and flexor digiti minimi brevis insert on the lateral side of its base, and the third plantar interosseous on the medial side.
• The extensor digitorum longus and brevis tendons join over its dorsum to form the extensor expansion.

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

• Middle phalanx of little toe · skeletal
• Proximal phalanx of fourth toe · skeletal
• Distal phalanx of little toe · skeletal
• Middle phalanx of fourth toe · skeletal
• Third plantar interosseous of foot · muscular
• Proximal phalanx of third toe · skeletal
• Second plantar interosseous of foot · muscular
• Transverse head of adductor hallucis · muscular
• First plantar interosseous of foot · muscular
• Flexor digiti minimi brevis of foot · muscular