What is the common name for the Interosseous muscle or tendon of the fore limb?

• A. Flexor muscle
• B. Rotator muscle
• C. Levator muscle
• D. Extensor muscle

Answer: (D)

The interosseous muscle or tendon of the fore limb is best known by its action: it helps extend the joints of the forelimb, especially the fetlock and digits. Structures that extend the limb sit on the dorsal side and form part of the extensor mechanism, so the common name reflects this function. It is not primarily a flexor (which would bend the joints and sit on the opposite side), nor a rotator or levator, which describe different kinds of movements not central to this structure.