hand phalanges

The phalange are all shorter than MC ,lack rounded heads and are antreposteriorly flattedned in shafts. The thunb phalanges are shorter and squatter than the others, and the thumb lacks intermediate phalanx. The expanded proximal end of each phalanx is the base. the distal end is head ( proximal or intermediate phalanges) or the distal tip (distal phalanges only). the non articulate tubercles adjacent to the MC heads and the phalangeal joints are attachement points for the collateral ligament.
dorsal surface ofthe hand phalanges are smooth and rounded. The palmar surfaces, incontrast, are flat and more roughened,especially along either site of the shaft, where raised ridge mark attachment sites for the fibrous flexor shealts, tissues that prevent the flexor tendos from " bow stringing" away from the bones as the fingers are felxed.

hand phanalges each ossify from 2 centers:

1- for shaft plus distal end

2- for the base

hand phalanges have shafts whose palmar surface are flattened, forming a half-circle in cross section. Foot phalanx shafts are circular in cross section.