Fourth toe

The fourth toe, also known as the fourth digit of the foot, is one of the five digits located on the human foot. It is situated between the third toe and the fifth toe, commonly referred to as the "ring toe" due to its position analogous to the ring finger on the hand.

Toes feet

Anatomy

The fourth toe consists of three phalanges: the proximal, middle, and distal phalanges. These bones are connected by interphalangeal joints, which allow for limited movement. The fourth toe is part of the forefoot, which also includes the other toes and the metatarsal bones.

Bones

• Proximal phalanx: The bone closest to the foot, articulating with the fourth metatarsal bone.
• Middle phalanx: The intermediate bone, connecting the proximal and distal phalanges.
• Distal phalanx: The bone at the tip of the toe.

Joints

• Metatarsophalangeal joint: The joint between the fourth metatarsal and the proximal phalanx.
• Proximal interphalangeal joint: The joint between the proximal and middle phalanges.
• Distal interphalangeal joint: The joint between the middle and distal phalanges.

Muscles and Tendons

The movement of the fourth toe is controlled by several muscles and tendons:

• Flexor digitorum longus: Flexes the distal phalanges of the lateral four toes.
• Flexor digitorum brevis: Flexes the middle phalanges of the lateral four toes.
• Extensor digitorum longus: Extends the lateral four toes.
• Extensor digitorum brevis: Assists in extending the toes.
• Lumbricals: Flex the metatarsophalangeal joints and extend the interphalangeal joints.

Nerve Supply

The fourth toe receives its nerve supply from the medial plantar nerve and the lateral plantar nerve, both of which are branches of the tibial nerve. These nerves provide sensory and motor innervation to the toe.

Blood Supply

The blood supply to the fourth toe is provided by branches of the dorsalis pedis artery and the plantar arteries. Venous drainage is through the dorsal venous arch of the foot and the plantar venous network.

Function

The primary function of the fourth toe, like the other toes, is to aid in balance and support during walking, running, and standing. It helps in distributing body weight across the foot and provides leverage during the push-off phase of gait.

Clinical Significance

The fourth toe can be affected by various conditions, including:

• Hammertoe: A deformity causing the toe to bend downward at the middle joint.
• Bunionette: A bony prominence on the outside of the foot near the base of the fourth and fifth toes.
• Morton's neuroma: A painful condition affecting the nerves between the toes, often between the third and fourth toes.
• Fractures: Breaks in the bones of the toe due to trauma or stress.

See Also

• Foot anatomy
• Toe
• Phalanges of the foot