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Which statement about the phalanges of the foot is false?
Numbered one to five from lateral to medial
The big toe has two phalanges while the others have three
Each foot contains 14 phalanges
They are classified into proximal, middle, and distal groups
The correct answer is: Numbered one to five from lateral to medial
The statement that the phalanges of the foot are numbered one to five from lateral to medial is false. In the anatomy of the foot, the numbering of the toes actually goes from medial to lateral; that is, the big toe (hallux) is considered number one and is the most medial, while the little toe is number five and is the most lateral. The other statements are accurate: the big toe does indeed have two phalanges (the proximal and distal), while the other four toes each have three (proximal, middle, and distal), which makes a total of 14 phalanges in each foot. Furthermore, the classification of the phalanges into proximal, middle, and distal groups reflects the structural organization of the bones within the toes. Understanding the proper numbering and classification of the phalanges is crucial for accurately discussing foot anatomy and addressing any conditions or treatments related to the toes.