Middle phalanx of foot

The middle phalanx of the foot is the intermediate bone in the phalangeal series of the lateral four toes (digits II–V). It is absent in the hallux (great toe), which only has proximal and distal phalanges. The middle phalanx is typically shorter than the proximal phalanx and varies in length and morphology, with notable non-metric variation (long and short types) especially in the lateral toes, reflecting evolutionary adaptation for bipedalism.

The middle phalanx has a base (proximal end) that articulates with the head of the proximal phalanx, and a head (distal end) that articulates with the base of the distal phalanx. The shaft is generally flattened dorsoplantarly and tapers distally. The articular surfaces are covered by hyaline cartilage, and the bone serves as an attachment site for the flexor and extensor tendons of the toes. The plantar plate and collateral ligaments are associated with the proximal phalanx, but the middle phalanx is involved in the distal interphalangeal joint, contributing to toe stability and movement.