Which action is primarily governed by the C7 myotome?

Prepare for the Orthotics and Prosthetics Combined Written Boards Exam. Enhance your understanding with multiple choice questions and detailed explanations to succeed in your certification.

The C7 myotome is primarily associated with the motor control of specific muscles that control elbow extension. This action is primarily facilitated by the triceps brachii muscle, which is innervated by the radial nerve that originates from the C7 spinal nerve root. The ability to extend the elbow is a key function that allows for a wide range of activities involving the upper limb, and thus, it is a critical motor skill governed by the C7 level of the spinal cord.

In contrast, finger abduction is mainly controlled by the ulnar nerve, which arises from both C8 and T1 roots. Thumb extension is primarily governed by the radial nerve, associated with the C8 spinal level. Lastly, knee extension is controlled by the quadriceps muscles, which are primarily innervated by the femoral nerve, stemming from the L2, L3, and L4 spinal segments, rather than the C7 myotome. Therefore, while each of the other actions involves different muscle groups and spinal segments, elbow extension is distinctly linked to the C7 myotome.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy