This model incorporates a store bought resin skeleton, felt fabric cut into shapes that mimic the eight extrinsic muscles of the canine forelimb, and utilizes the properties of rubber cement. Attachment sites on the skeleton and on the synthetic muscles are painted with rubber cement and allowed to dry. Students then work in groups to assemble each of the muscles between the axial skeleton and the forelimb.
This activity allows students to identify the extrinsic muscles and their proximal/axial and distal/appendicular attachments, and describe their function. It also demonstrates topographical interrelationships between the muscles, bones, bony prominences and attachment sites. At the end of the activity, a clinical based discussion (to establish relevance) in the context of a forelimb amputation is conducted, as each extrinsic muscle needs to be identified and transected during a forelimb amputation.
"Success has to do with deliberate practice. Practice must be focused, determined, and in an environment where there is feedback".
Malcolm Gladwell (journalist, author, public speaker)