Technical Tuesday Fun Phalanges
The word “phalanges” comes from the Greek word phalanx that refers to a body of Macedonian infantry who had long spears. The word phalanx is still used today to mean a body of troops (or something similar) that move in close formation.
This all makes sense then, anatomically. The phalanges refer to the bones of the fingers and toes. There are three different types: the distal (where the nail is), middle, and proximal (connects to the palm of the hand). These three exist for every digit except the thumb and big toes (they have two).
For dancers, the phalanges of the fingers allow the lovely, expressive – although subtle – movements of the fingers. They allow the hands to “breathe” and thus avoid looking like the dancer’s hands are welded in place. The phalanges of the toes allows all those “rolling through the foot” moments so critical to correct technique and to pointe work.
From the Big Blue Book of Ballet
Secrets:
Ballet Secret # 120:
“The phalanges are the bones that make up the fingers.”
Link of the Day:
Quote
of the Day:
“The way our fingers intertwine feels so natural and
right; as if our hands hold memories of meeting in a thousand other lifetimes.”
― John Mark Green
― John Mark Green
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