What is the origin and significance of the term toes in human anatomy?

From the Guidelines

The term "toes" in human anatomy refers to the digits of the foot, which play a crucial role in human movement and balance, and their significance is rooted in their adaptation for upright walking and weight-bearing functions. Toes are the digits of the foot, typically numbering five on each foot, and they are essential for balance, weight distribution, and adaptation to uneven surfaces. The big toe (hallux) is particularly significant as it bears much of the body's weight during walking and provides essential leverage during the push-off phase of gait. According to the guidelines on the prevention of foot ulcers in persons with diabetes 1, proper care of the toes, including daily washing and drying, especially between the toes, and cutting toenails straight across, is crucial for preventing foot ulcers and other complications.

The anatomy of toes consists of phalanges (small bones), with the big toe having two phalanges and the remaining toes having three each. These bones are connected by joints and supported by tendons, ligaments, and muscles that enable flexion, extension, and limited abduction/adduction movements. The evolutionary significance of toes relates to our transition from tree-dwelling to bipedal locomotion, where they became specialized for upright walking rather than grasping.

In the context of diabetes, the risk of ulcers or amputations is increased in people who have had diabetes for an extended period, are male, have poor glucose control, or have cardiovascular, retinal, or renal complications 1. The guidelines recommend screening for signs or symptoms of peripheral neuropathy and peripheral artery disease (PAD) to determine the risk of foot ulceration 1. Proper footwear, including well-fitted walking shoes or athletic shoes that cushion the feet and redistribute pressure, is essential for preventing foot ulcers and other complications. Additionally, education on foot self-care, including daily foot examinations and proper toenail care, is crucial for preventing foot ulcers and promoting overall foot health 1.

Key points to consider in the care of toes include:

• Daily washing and drying of the feet, especially between the toes
• Cutting toenails straight across to prevent ingrown toenails
• Wearing proper footwear, including well-fitted walking shoes or athletic shoes
• Avoiding walking barefoot or in thin-soled slippers
• Examining the feet daily for signs of ulcers or other complications
• Seeking medical attention promptly if any signs of ulcers or other complications are detected.

From the Research

Origin and Significance of Toes

The term "toes" refers to the digits at the end of the human foot, playing a crucial role in balance, movement, and overall locomotion.

• The origin of the term "toes" is not explicitly stated in the provided studies, but its significance in human anatomy is well-documented 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
• Studies have shown that toes are essential for stabilizing the foot during walking and running, with the first toe playing a key role in bearing weight and maintaining balance 2, 3.

Function of Toes During Locomotion

The function of toes during locomotion is complex and involves the coordination of multiple joints and muscles.

• Research has shown that the toes are in contact with the ground for approximately three-quarters of the stance phase of gait, exerting peak pressures similar to those of the metatarsal region 3.
• The shape and function of the toes are highly variable, but a statistical shape-function model can accurately predict joint mechanics based on shape features 4.
• The metatarsophalangeal joints divide the forefoot into two segments, with the proximal segment used for the first antigravitational phase and the distal segment added when the foot has gained speed 5.

Evolutionary Significance of Toe Length

The length of the toes has been shown to have evolutionary significance, particularly in the context of bipedalism and endurance running.

• Research suggests that shorter toes may have evolved to improve locomotor performance by decreasing digital flexor force production and mechanical work, ultimately reducing the metabolic cost of flexor force production during bipedal locomotion 6.
• Studies have found that increasing average relative toe length by as little as 20% can double peak digital flexor impulses and mechanical work, likely increasing the metabolic cost of generating these forces 6.