Proximal phalanx of third toe: anatomy, location and function

What it is

The first and longest phalanx of the third toe (third 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

FMA32637 (Foundational Model of Anatomy)

Key facts

• The four lesser toes each have three phalanges; the big toe has two.
• The third dorsal interosseous inserts on its lateral side and the first plantar interosseous on its 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:

• Proximal phalanx of fourth toe · skeletal
• Proximal phalanx of second toe · skeletal
• Middle phalanx of fourth toe · skeletal
• Middle phalanx of third toe · skeletal
• Distal phalanx of fourth toe · skeletal
• Middle phalanx of second toe · skeletal
• Transverse head of adductor hallucis · muscular
• Middle phalanx of little toe · skeletal
• Distal phalanx of little toe · skeletal
• Proximal phalanx of little toe · skeletal