Which bones are referred to as phalanges?

Phalanges refer specifically to the bones that make up the fingers and toes. Each finger has three phalanges—distal, middle, and proximal—while the thumb has two. Similarly, each toe has three phalanges, with the exception of the big toe, which has two. This definition categorizes phalanges distinctly within the skeletal system and distinguishes them from other bones such as those found in the wrist, arms, or spine. Understanding the anatomy of the body and the specific classification of bones is crucial for subjects related to medical fields and anatomy studies, emphasizing why identifying the phalanges correctly as the bones of the fingers and toes is important.