Illinois Nail Technician Practice Exam

What is the function of an extender muscle?

1. To rotate the wrist

2. To straighten the wrist

3. To bend the wrist

4. To flex the fingers

The correct answer is: To straighten the wrist

An extender muscle serves the primary function of straightening or extending a joint, which in the context of the wrist, means allowing the hand to move away from the forearm. This action is fundamental in various activities such as reaching out or making gestures. The extender muscles of the wrist, specifically the extensor carpi radialis and extensor carpi ulnaris, contribute to the extension movement, enabling greater control and functionality of the wrist joint. In contrast, the other options describe functions related to different types of movements. Rotating the wrist involves different muscle groups, while bending the wrist pertains to flexor muscles that pull the hand toward the forearm. Flexing the fingers is also not the role of extender muscles, as that movement is primarily controlled by flexor muscles in the forearm and hand. By understanding the specific role of extender muscles, one can appreciate their importance in overall wrist and hand mobility.