Which term denotes the bottom surface of the hind foot?

• A. Dorsal
• B. Ventral
• C. Palmar
• D. Plantar

Answer: (D)

In veterinary anatomy, limb surfaces are described by dorsal, ventral, palmar, and plantar. The bottom surface of the hind foot—the part that contacts the ground and forms the sole—is called plantar. This term is used specifically for the hind limb, while the bottom surface of the forelimb is referred to as palmar. Dorsal describes the top or back surface of the limb, and ventral refers to the belly side. So, the hind foot’s underside is plantar because it denotes the sole of the hind paw.