Phalangeal fractures typically occur due to direct trauma or from a fall. Often, they are not treated operatively. Fractures of the distal phalanx of the first digit are the most common phalangeal injuries of the foot.

A	AP and oblique radiographs of the foot. These reveal several fractures. There is a fracture of the distal aspect of the first metatarsal as well as fractures of the proximal aspects of the proximal phalanges of digits one and two.
B	AP radiograph of the foot demonstrates a fracture of the fourth proximal phalanx.
C	AP radiograph of the foot shows a small fracture of the fifth proximal phalanx.

Links to online textbooks:

• Wheeless' Orthopedics: menu of midfoot/forefoot fractures

Links to online cases:

• University of Melbourne

References:

• Rapoff AJ, Heiner JP: Avulsion fracture of the great toe: a case report Foot Ankle Int. 1999 May;20(5):337-9.           [See related articles]