Tendon
Tough fibrous tissue that connects muscles to bones, enabling movement. Tendon problems around joints can cause pain that mimics arthritis.
Extended Definition
Tendons are dense, fibrous connective tissues that transmit forces from muscles to bones. Unlike ligaments (which connect bone to bone), tendons connect muscle to bone and enable active movement.
Key Characteristics
- Composed mainly of collagen - Type I collagen fibers arranged in parallel
- Limited blood supply - Heals slowly when injured
- High tensile strength - Can withstand significant pulling forces
Common Tendon Problems
- Tendinitis - Acute inflammation from overuse
- Tendinosis - Chronic degeneration without inflammation
- Tendon tears - Partial or complete rupture
Relevance to Joint Pain
Tendon problems can occur alongside or be mistaken for arthritis. For example:
- Patellar tendinitis (jumper’s knee) causes anterior knee pain
- Quadriceps tendinopathy can mimic knee OA symptoms
- Treatment differs from arthritis management
Related Terms
More Anatomy Terms
View allAcetabulum
The cup-shaped socket of the pelvis that holds the head of the femur (thigh bone) in the hip joint.
Articular Cartilage
The smooth, white tissue covering the ends of bones in joints. Its breakdown is the primary feature of osteoarthritis.
Bursae
Small, fluid-filled sacs that act as cushions between bones, tendons, and muscles near joints, reducing friction during movement. Singular form is 'bursa.'
Bursa
Small, fluid-filled sacs that cushion bones, tendons, and muscles near joints. Bursitis (inflammation of a bursa) can cause joint pain similar to arthritis.
Cartilage
A smooth, rubbery connective tissue that covers and protects the ends of bones where they meet to form joints, allowing them to glide smoothly during movement.