01 / Location & anatomical relationships
At the front end of each foot.
02 / Structure & organization
Toes two through five usually have three phalanges; the great toe has two. Flexor and extensor tendons coordinate with intrinsic muscles. The great toe is particularly important during the final phase of stance.
03 / Function
They help with balance and pushing off the ground as you walk.
04 / Mechanism
Small bones and joints let toes bend as your weight moves forward. Muscles and tendons guide that movement. The big toe is particularly useful during push-off at the end of a walking step.
Part of a bigger picture
The toe belongs in our legs & feet collection. Explore the nearby parts to see how this area of the body fits together.
Explore legs & feet →FOR DEEPER STUDY
Connect structure with function
Toes adjust to the ground and contribute to propulsion. Their role depends on the stability and motion of the rest of the foot, rather than on isolated toe strength.
Check your understanding
Locate the toe in relation to its neighbors. Explain how the structural features described above support its function, then distinguish it from a nearby structure with a different role.
Keep learning
Continue with OpenStax Anatomy and Physiology for system-level study. This atlas is educational and has not undergone independent medical peer review.