Understanding Tendons: Functions, Types, and Common Conditions

Tendons are tissues that connect muscles to bones. They are made up of collagen and other proteins, and their main function is to transmit forces from the muscle to the bone, allowing for movement and maintaining posture. Tendons are found throughout the body, and they play a crucial role in joint mobility and stability.

There are several types of tendons in the human body, including:

1. Achilles tendon: connects the calf muscles to the heel bone (calcaneus) and helps to flex the foot.
2. Patellar tendon: connects the quadriceps muscle to the kneecap (patella) and helps to straighten the knee.
3. Rotator cuff tendons: surround the shoulder joint and help to stabilize the shoulder blade and arm bone (humerus).
4. Wrist tendons: connect the flexor and extensor muscles of the hand to the carpal bones and help to flex and extend the wrist.
5. Finger tendons: connect the flexor and extensor muscles of the fingers to the phalanges (finger bones) and help to flex and extend the fingers.

Tendons can be affected by a variety of conditions, such as injury, inflammation, or degenerative diseases like tendinitis or tendinosis. These conditions can cause pain, stiffness, and limited mobility in the affected joint. Treatment for tendon problems may include rest, physical therapy, medication, or surgery, depending on the severity of the condition.