Alberta Written Barber Practice Exam

The gastrocnemius muscle plays a crucial role in extending the foot and ankle. It is a large, powerful muscle located in the back of the lower leg and is one of the main components of the calf. When the gastrocnemius contracts, it facilitates plantar flexion, which is the movement that points the toes downward and extends the ankle joint.

The gastrocnemius also plays a significant role when walking, running, and jumping by allowing the heel to lift off the ground. Its action, in conjunction with the soleus muscle, contributes to activities that require strong push-off and propulsion movements.

In contrast, other muscles listed, like the flexor digitorum and tibialis posterior, primarily aid in foot movement but do not effectively extend the foot at the ankle. The soleus assists in the plantar flexion but works more in balance and steadiness rather than the primary extension action that the gastrocnemius performs. Therefore, identifying the gastrocnemius as the primary muscle responsible for extending the foot and ankle is accurate given its position and function in the body's mechanics.