Distal
/dɪstʌl/
1. [noun] situated away from the centre of the body, or from the point of origin, specifically applied to the extremity of distant part of a limb or organ; See: https://medical-dictionary.thefreedictionary.com/distal ; Accessed May 8 2019 The distal phalanges (foot) are located at the end of each toe. Three phalangeal bones make up each digit, articulating with each other at bending joints. The distal phalanges come at the end, right below the toenail. See: https://www.healthline.com/human-body-maps/distal-phalanges-foot#1 ; Accessed May 8 2019
Source: https://medical-dictionary.thefreedictionary.com/distal
Frequently Asked Questions
How can recognizing a distal location in the foot help in identifying toe segments during an examination?
Understanding that the distal parts are farther from the body's center clarifies which toe segments lie at the very tip of the foot. For example, the distal phalanx is located right below the toenail, illustrating its distant position relative to the toe's base.
How does awareness of distal positioning in foot anatomy influence our understanding of everyday foot actions?
Knowing that distal refers to the farthest end of the toe can help us appreciate how the tip of the toe plays a unique role during activities such as tip-toeing or walking. This focused awareness distinguishes the end structures from central parts of the foot.