What do the phalanges refer to in human anatomy?

The phalanges specifically refer to the bones found in the fingers and toes of the human body. In both the hands and feet, there are multiple phalanges that contribute to the structure and function of digits. Each finger consists of three phalanges – the proximal, middle, and distal phalanx – except for the thumb, which has two (the proximal and distal phalanx). Similarly, each toe also consists of three phalanges, with the exception of the big toe, which mirrors the thumb's structure with only two phalanges. This anatomical terminology is crucial for understanding human skeletal structure and function, particularly in relation to mobility and dexterity.