Distal phalanges
Distal phalanges (single
distal phalanx) are bones found in the limbs of most
vertebrate skeletons. In humans, they are the finger bones located furthest from the shoulder joint, and the toe bones located furthest from the hip. They have a corresponding location in the limbs of most other vertebrates, including the
fins of
whales and the
wings of
birds. They are also usually
conical.
Very often, distal phalanges are tipped with
claws. In
primates, they are covered by a protective
nail. Animals which walk
digitigrade (such as
dogs) tread upon them, and humans commonly use them to push buttons, pinch, and hold small objects.
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Bone terminology*
Terms for anatomical location
