Phalanges are digital bones in both the hands and feet. In a human foot, each phalange (or phalanx) connects to a metatarsal bone via metatarsophalangeal articulations (joints).
Humans and primates have 56 phalanges in total: two phalanges in each thumb and big toe, and three phalanges in each of the remaining digits. Usually, the phalanges in the fourth and fifth toes are fused together (called symphalangism).
The phalange bones closest to the hand or foot are called proximal phalanges. The bones furthest from the hand or foot are called distal phalanges. The phalanges in the middle are called intermediate.