Intermediate Phalanges
Return to Functional Anatomy / Physiology Menu
Intermediate phalanges, also known as middle phalanges, are bones in the fingers and toes. They are located between the proximal and distal phalanges:
- Proximal phalanges: The bones closest to the foot or hand
- Intermediate phalanges: The bones between the proximal and distal phalanges
- Distal phalanges: The tips of the toes
Each hand has four intermediate phalanges, except for the thumb, which has none. Each foot has four intermediate phalanges, except for the big toe, which has none.

Intermediate phalanges have a similar structure to proximal phalanges: Base, Body, Head.
The base of each intermediate phalanx has two concave-shaped articular facets that match the head of the corresponding proximal phalanx. The distal end has a convex articular facet for the distal phalanges.