Which muscle runs from the femur to the proximal metatarsal?

Which muscle runs from the femur to the proximal metatarsal?

• A. Tibialis cranialis
• B. Biceps femoris
• C. Peroneus tertius
• D. Gracilis

Answer: (C)

The muscle that runs from the femur to the proximal metatarsal is the peroneus tertius. This muscle forms part of the stay apparatus by sending a tendon that crosses the knee and attaches to the proximal metatarsal, creating a reciprocal link between the stifle and the hock. That direct high-to-foot pathway is what sets it apart from the others: the tibialis cranialis originates on the tibia and inserts on the metatarsals but not from the femur; the biceps femoris and gracilis come from the pelvis and descend along the leg to other regions, not to the proximal metatarsal.

The muscle that runs from the femur to the proximal metatarsal is the peroneus tertius. This muscle forms part of the stay apparatus by sending a tendon that crosses the knee and attaches to the proximal metatarsal, creating a reciprocal link between the stifle and the hock. That direct high-to-foot pathway is what sets it apart from the others: the tibialis cranialis originates on the tibia and inserts on the metatarsals but not from the femur; the biceps femoris and gracilis come from the pelvis and descend along the leg to other regions, not to the proximal metatarsal.