Dr. Mary Ann Bender presents.......What is a phalanx?

A phalanx is one of the small bones that makes up a toe. For the big toe (also known as the hallux), there are two phalanges, and for the lesser toes, there are typically three phalanges per toe. Thus, a phalanx is a very small bone. These bones are easy to break or injure if they are stepped on, bumped, or traumatized in any other way. The best way to see if a phalanx has been injured is through a clinical exam with your podiatrist and with an x-ray. Dr. Bender, 6931 W. North Ave., Oak Park, IL 60302