The Phalanges (Feet) 

theamateurosteologist:

Right Phalanges - Superior, Inferior, and Lateral aspects.
Human Osteology, 3rd Edition

There are 14 phalanges per feet, contributing to the high number of bones in the body. When compared to that of a primate’s, the position of the big toe or hallux is parallel with the other phalanges.

Etymology
Phalanx/phalange (pl. phalanxes, phalanges), from the Ancient Greek phalanks meaning battle order, array.

Articulating Bones
The proximal phalanges of each digit articulate proximally with the respective metatarsals (MT1-5).

Features

• Hallux - the big toe
• Base - the proximal end of each phalanx
• Head - distal end of proximal or intermediate phalanges
• Distal Tip/Tuft - distal end of distal phalanges
• Trochlea - distal articular surface of the proximal and intermediate phalanges
• Distal Phalangeal Tubercle/Tuft - the nonarticular part or terminal tip of the distal phalanges

Siding
Because the bones are typically indistinguishable, it is best to work with extant samples or have a standard to compare to. It is at least possible to orient them properly if they are isolated. From a superior aspect, the heads are notched and the bases are blunt. The top of the bone is smooth and arched. From an inferior aspect, there are two bumps which denote the base and a smooth head.

Facts
The hallux is the most noticeable due to its size and differing appearance to the rest of the phalanges.In locomotion or walking, much of the driving force is placed on this toe. The evolution of this bone in conjunction with the rest of the skeleton has created an obligatory bipedal locomotive motion in humans. Basically, why we walk upright.