Did you know that fingers have a scientific name? Most people are familiar with the common name for these body parts, but their official name is less well-known. For those who are curious, fingers are scientifically called digits. Digits refer to the five appendages on each hand that enable humans to pick up objects, write, and carry out a myriad of other actions.
While the term “finger” may have originated from the Old English word for “finger,” the name “digit” has more of a medical connotation. In the world of anatomy, digits are used to describe any of the bones, muscles, or tendons in the human hand that extend beyond the wrist. These connective tissues work together to facilitate movement, grip, and touch, providing us with the ability to perform intricate motor skills with our hands.
Beyond their physical function, digits also hold cultural significance in many societies. Fingers have been used to communicate messages, create art, and express one’s identity for centuries. Some cultures even consider certain fingers to be more important or powerful than others, attributing specific meanings and associations to each digit. With all of these uses and meanings, it’s no wonder that digits are such an important and fascinating part of the human body!
Human Anatomy Terms
When it comes to discussing the human body, it’s important to understand the proper scientific terminology. This includes the scientific terms for our fingers. Contrary to popular belief, the term “finger” is actually a colloquial term used in everyday language. The scientific term for fingers is “digits.”
Further, each digit has its own specific name. Let’s take a look at each digit and its corresponding scientific name:
- Thumb: also known as the pollex
- Index finger: also known as the second digit or the pointer finger
- Middle finger: also known as the third digit
- Ring finger: also known as the fourth digit
- Pinky finger: also known as the fifth digit or the little finger
It’s important to note that within the scientific community, fingers are often referred to as digits because the term “finger” only refers to the five digits on a hand, whereas “digit” can refer to any appendage that serves a similar function. For example, the toes on our feet are also digits.
Overall, understanding the proper scientific terminology for the human body is crucial for accurate communication within the medical and scientific fields. It’s also a fascinating way to gain deeper insight into the complexities of our anatomy.
Body Parts
What Are Fingers Scientifically Called?
Fingers are one of the most important body parts that allow humans to perform intricate tasks. They are scientifically called digits, which come from the Latin word “digitus” meaning “a finger or toe”.
- There are five digits on each hand: the thumb, index finger, middle finger, ring finger, and pinky finger.
- Each digit is made up of three bones, except for the thumb which only has two.
- The digits are connected to the hand by a joint called the metacarpophalangeal joint, which allows for movement and flexibility.
Aside from their primary function of grasping and manipulation, fingers also have a unique and intimate connection to the brain. The somatosensory cortex, the part of the brain that processes sensory information, has a larger part dedicated to the fingers compared to other parts of the body. This allows for precise and skilled movements that enable humans to create, invent, and perform extraordinary feats.
Hand Anatomy
The human hand is a complex and intricate part of our body, made up of bones, muscles, tendons, and ligaments. It allows us to perform a wide range of tasks, such as grasping objects, writing, typing, and playing musical instruments. The fingers, in particular, play a crucial role in these functions.
What Are Fingers Scientifically Called?
- The thumb: Also known as the pollex, is the most distinctive and versatile of the fingers, with only two phalanges instead of three like the other fingers. This allows the thumb to rotate and oppose the other fingers, making it possible to perform complex tasks like writing, grasping objects, and manipulating tools.
- The index finger: Also known as the forefinger, is the second-most important finger and is used for pointing, gesturing, and manipulating small objects. It has three phalanges, including a proximal, middle, and distal phalanx.
- The middle finger: Is the longest of the fingers and has three phalanges. It is used mainly for stability and support when grasping objects.
- The ring finger: Is located between the middle finger and the little finger and is the weakest finger. It has three phalanges and is used primarily for grasping objects of medium size.
- The little finger: Also known as the pinky, is the smallest and weakest finger and has only two phalanges. It is used mainly for support and balance when grasping objects with the other fingers.
Finger Bones and Joints
The fingers are made up of three bones called phalanges, connected by interphalangeal joints. These joints provide flexibility and mobility to the fingers and allow them to bend, straighten, and rotate. The thumb has only two phalanges and one joint, known as the interphalangeal joint.
The fingers are also supported by a network of muscles, tendons, and ligaments, which work together to control the movement and stability of the fingers. The tendons are attached to the muscles and bones and are responsible for flexing and extending the fingers.
Finger Functions
The fingers are essential for many tasks, such as playing instruments, typing, writing, holding objects, and performing fine motor skills. The opposing and rotating movement of the thumb, for example, allows us to pick up small objects, button clothes, and manipulate tools.
| Function | Finger(s) Involved |
|---|---|
| Grasping and holding objects | Thumb, index, middle, ring, and little fingers |
| Playing instruments | Thumb, index, middle, ring, and little fingers |
| Typing and writing | Thumb and index fingers |
| Performing fine motor skills | All fingers |
The fingers, therefore, play an essential role in our daily lives and are a crucial part of the intricate and complex human hand.
Digit Anatomy
Our fingers are remarkable tools that enable us to perform a variety of tasks, from picking up a pencil to typing on a keyboard. But what are fingers scientifically called? The answer lies in their anatomy.
Number of Fingers
- Most humans have five fingers on each hand, for a total of ten fingers.
- However, some people are born with fewer fingers, a condition known as polydactyly, or extra fingers, a condition known as syndactyly.
- On rare occasions, some people are born with no fingers at all, a condition known as adactyly.
Finger Parts
The parts of a finger are:
- Bone – The finger bones are called phalanges. Each finger has three phalanges, except for the thumb, which has two.
- Joint – The joints between the phalanges are called interphalangeal joints. The joint at the base of the finger is called the metacarpophalangeal joint.
- Skin – The skin on our fingers is composed of several layers, including the epidermis and dermis.
- Nail – The hard, keratinized structure at the end of each finger is called a nail. Its purpose is to protect the fingertips and help with gripping.
- Tendons – Tendons are fibrous tissue that connect muscles to bones. In our fingers, tendons help us to bend and straighten them.
- Ligaments – Ligaments are strong bands of tissue that connect bones to each other. In our fingers, ligaments help to stabilize the joints.
Fingerprints
Each person has a unique set of fingerprints. Our fingerprints are formed by ridges on the skin that are present on our fingers and palms. They are used for identification purposes in criminal investigations, border control, and other applications.
Finger Length
| Digit | Length (cm) |
| Thumb | 6.5-7 |
| Index finger | 7.5-8.5 |
| Middle finger | 8.5-9.5 |
| Ring finger | 7.5-8.5 |
| Pinky finger | 5.5-6.5 |
The length of our fingers can vary from person to person. According to a study published in the journal Hormones and Behavior, the length of our index finger relative to our ring finger is determined by our exposure to prenatal hormones. This ratio has been linked to various traits, such as musical ability, athletic prowess, and risk of certain diseases.
Names of Fingers
Did you know that scientific names have been given to each finger on your hand? Each finger has a unique anatomical structure that serves a different purpose. Here are the scientific names of each finger:
- Thumb – Also known as the pollex, the thumb is one of the most important fingers on your hand. It allows us to grip objects and perform fine motor tasks with precision.
- Index Finger – The index finger, also called the digitus secundus, is typically the longest finger on your hand. It is used to point and often serves as the lead finger during hand motions.
- Middle Finger – The digitus medius, or middle finger, is located between the index finger and the ring finger. Contrary to popular belief, this finger has a purpose beyond making rude gestures. It helps with grip and can be used for things like typing and playing musical instruments.
- Ring Finger – The digitus annularis, or ring finger, is often referred to as the wedding ring finger. It is the fourth finger on your hand and is believed to have a direct connection to the heart.
- Pinky Finger – Also known as the fifth digit or digitus minimus, the pinky finger is the smallest finger on your hand. It is often used as a support finger during hand motions.
While these scientific names may seem unnecessary, they allow medical professionals and researchers to more accurately describe and study the anatomy and function of each finger.
It is also interesting to note that the lengths and proportions of each finger can vary from person to person, and can even be an indicator of certain health conditions.
| Finger | Average Length* | Proportional Comparison |
|---|---|---|
| Thumb | 2.8 in | N/A |
| Index Finger | 3.1 in | Longer than the ring finger |
| Middle Finger | 3.3 in | Longer than the index and ring fingers |
| Ring Finger | 3.0 in | Shorter than the index and middle fingers |
| Pinky Finger | 2.5 in | Very short in comparison to the other fingers |
*These measurements are based on the average hand size of an adult male in the United States.
Knowing the scientific names of your fingers can add a fun and interesting element to your next anatomy discussion or trivia night. Who knew that something as simple as your fingers could have such complex structures and functions?
Finger Function
Fingers are one of our most important body parts that we use every day. They allow us to perform different tasks such as grip, grasp, touch, and manipulate objects. Their functions range from basic daily activities like buttoning a shirt, holding a pen, or brushing our teeth to complex activities like playing a musical instrument, typing, or operating machinery. The human hand is a complex organ that comprises 27 bones, 29 joints, and more than 30 muscles, enabling us to carry out intricate movements.
- Gripping: The ability to grip objects is vital to our everyday activities. Gripping is a combination of firm pressure and flexion of the fingers that hold an object in place. A firm grip allows us to carry heavy objects while a light grip is required for delicate items like holding a glass of wine.
- Grasping: Grasping is the ability to hold an object with our fingers and thumb. It involves opposing the thumb to one or more fingers, providing a strong hold on the object. Grasping allows us to hold objects such as a cup, a mobile phone, or a book without dropping them.
- Touching: Fingers contain numerous nerve receptors that allow us to sense textures, temperature, and pressure. They enable us to appreciate softness, hardness, roughness, and slippery surfaces, among others. Touching is crucial in our daily activities, from exploring the texture of clothes while shopping to checking the texture of food while cooking.
Our fingers have a great range of motion that permits us to manipulate objects finely. They have a unique capacity to move independently of one another, providing flexibility and dexterity. Finger function is crucial in specific types of work, hobbies, and sports like typing, sewing, drawing, playing musical instruments, playing sports like basketball or climbing, among others.
There is a direct relationship between hand size, finger strength, and task performance. A typical test to clinically measure finger strength is grip strength, which is an important factor in functional tasks that require manual dexterity. Studies have shown that there is a correlation between grip strength and the incidence of specific health issues like dementia, arthritis, and cardiovascular diseases.
| Finger Number | Name | Bones |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Thumb | 2 |
| 2 | Index finger | 3 |
| 3 | Middle finger | 3 |
| 4 | Ring finger | 3 |
| 5 | Pinky finger | 3 |
Overall, fingers’ function is vital to our daily lives and affects our ability to perform everyday tasks, work, and hobbies. Maintaining good hand and finger functioning can support a healthy life. Medical checkups, healthy habits like hand hygiene and regular exercises, and appropriate care can help preserve the function of our fingers.
Medical Conditions of Fingers
Our fingers are incredibly essential to our daily lives, and any issue that affects them can quickly make it much harder to do basic tasks. Many medical conditions can impact our fingers, and it’s vital to know how to identify them and what actions to take to manage them. Here are some of the most common medical conditions that affect the fingers:
- Arthritis – Arthritis is a chronic inflammatory disease that affects the joints, including those in the fingers. It can cause stiffness, swelling, and pain in the fingers and hands. Treatment options include medication, physical therapy, and surgery in severe cases.
- Tendonitis – Tendonitis occurs when the tendons, which connect muscles to bones, become inflamed. It can cause pain, swelling, and weakness in the fingers and hands. Treatment options include rest, ice, compression, and physical therapy.
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome – Carpal tunnel syndrome is a condition where the median nerve, which runs from the forearm into the hand, becomes compressed. It can cause tingling, numbness, and weakness in the fingers and hand. Treatment options include wrist splints, medication, and surgery in severe cases.
Other medical conditions that can affect the fingers include trigger finger, which causes the finger to get stuck in a bent position, and Raynaud’s disease, which causes the fingers to become numb and cold in response to stress or cold temperatures.
Furthermore, it’s essential to know how to identify abnormalities or deformities of the bones and muscles in the fingers. A deformity in any part of the finger can hinder daily tasks and can signify systemic underlying health issues. Here’s the list of abnormalities or deformities in the fingers:
| Abnormality/Deformity | Description | Treatment |
|---|---|---|
| Swan Neck Deformity | A hyperextension at the proximal interphalangeal joint (PIPJ) along with flexion in the distal interphalangeal joint (DIPJ). | Conservative management with splinting and hand therapy; surgical intervention in severe cases. |
| Boutonniere Deformity | A flexion of the PIPJ and extension of the DIPJ. | Conservative management with splinting and hand therapy; surgical intervention in severe cases. |
| Mallet Finger | A rupture or avulsion of the extensor mechanism of the DIPJ, causing it to remain in a flexed position. | Conservative management with immobilization and surgical intervention in severe cases. |
Identifying and managing medical conditions and abnormalities of fingers should be taken seriously to avoid prolonging and intensifying the problem. If you experience any symptoms in your fingers that persist or interfere with daily activities, it’s vital to seek medical attention and have them checked to prevent further complications.
FAQs about What Are Fingers Scientifically Called
Q1. What are fingers scientifically called?
A1. Fingers are scientifically called phalanges. They are the skeletal structures of the hand that extend from the palm to the tips of the fingers.
Q2. How many phalanges are in each finger?
A2. Each finger has three phalanges, except for the thumb which has two. The three phalanges are the distal, middle, and proximal phalanx.
Q3. What is the function of phalanges?
A3. The phalanges provide the hand with mobility and dexterity, allowing us to perform fine motor movements such as typing, writing, and grasping objects.
Q4. Is there a medical term for finger bones?
A4. Yes, finger bones are medically referred to as digital bones, but they are commonly referred to as phalanges.
Q5. What other structures are in the fingers besides phalanges?
A5. Besides phalanges, the fingers also contain muscles, ligaments, tendons, nerves, and blood vessels that allow for movement and sensation.
Q6. Can fingers be replaced with prosthetics?
A6. Yes, prosthetic fingers can be created to replace missing or amputated fingers. They are designed to match the shape, function, and appearance of a natural finger.
Q7. Are there any medical conditions related to the fingers?
A7. Yes, medical conditions related to the fingers include arthritis, carpal tunnel syndrome, trigger finger, and Dupuytren’s contracture.
Closing Thoughts
Thanks for taking the time to learn about what fingers are scientifically called. We hope this article has provided you with the answers you were looking for and expanded your knowledge about the fingers. Remember to keep your hands healthy and functional by exercising them regularly. Don’t forget to visit again later for more interesting topics and knowledge!