TENDON SHEATH Meaning and
Definition
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A tendon sheath is a protective covering present in the body that surrounds and encloses certain tendons, enabling smooth movement and reducing friction. It acts as a lubricated compartment or tunnel, allowing tendons to freely glide and function within it.
The tendon sheath is composed of two layers, namely the inner synovial layer and the outer fibrous layer. The synovial layer secretes synovial fluid, a slippery substance that lubricates the tendon and reduces friction during movement. This fluid-filled space prevents excessive wear and damage to the tendon, aiding in its smooth gliding motion.
Tendon sheaths are commonly found in areas where tendons pass through tight spaces or bend frequently, such as the hands, wrists, and ankles. They are particularly important in facilitating the movement of tendons that are responsible for fine motor skills and control.
The presence of a tendon sheath helps to maintain tendon integrity by protecting it from external forces, reducing frictional wear and tear. In addition, it provides a suitable environment for tendon healing by promoting blood flow, delivering nutrients, and removing waste products.
However, when a tendon sheath becomes inflamed or thickened due to repetitive motion or certain conditions, it can lead to a painful condition known as tenosynovitis. This condition restricts the smooth gliding motion of the tendon within the sheath, causing pain, swelling, and limited mobility. Treatment may involve rest, physical therapy, medication, or in severe cases, surgical intervention.
Common Misspellings for TENDON SHEATH
- rendon sheath
- fendon sheath
- gendon sheath
- yendon sheath
- 6endon sheath
- 5endon sheath
- twndon sheath
- tsndon sheath
- tdndon sheath
- trndon sheath
- t4ndon sheath
- t3ndon sheath
- tebdon sheath
- temdon sheath
- tejdon sheath
- tehdon sheath
- tenson sheath
- tenxon sheath
- tencon sheath
- tenfon sheath
Etymology of TENDON SHEATH
The word "tendon" comes from the Latin word "tendō", meaning "sinew" or "cord". It can be traced back to the Proto-Indo-European root "*ten-", which relates to stretching.
The word "sheath" comes from the Old English word "sceath", meaning a covering or a case. It can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word "*skēþō", which also means a sheath or a covering.
Therefore, the term "tendon sheath" combines "tendon" and "sheath" to refer to a covering or a membrane that encloses and protects a tendon.
