Interphalangeal joint

Definition

An interphalangeal joint is a hinge joint located between the phalanges (bones) of the fingers and toes. These joints allow for the bending and straightening movements of the fingers and toes.

Related terms

Phalanges: The bones that make up the fingers of the hands and the toes of the feet.

Flexion: A bending movement around a joint in a limb (like the knee or elbow) that decreases the angle between the bones of the limb at the joint.

Extension: An opposite movement to flexion, it increases the angle between body parts at a joint, straightening out from a bend