Similar to tendons, Aponeurosis is a flattened fibrous membrane binding the muscles together or connecting them to other parts of the body such as bone or skin. Tendons are the tough band of inelastic fibrous tissues connecting a muscle with their bony attachment.

Key Difference

The main difference is that Aponeurosis connects the muscles of the body to other muscles which necessitate help, while the tendons serve as a link between the muscles and the bones. Both these structures individually perform functions that are associated with muscles, which contribute to the optimal functioning of the body.

Aponeurosis

  • These are ribbon or flat sheets of tendon-like substances anchoring muscles or connecting them with the part that muscles move.
  • Comprises dense fibrous connective tissues which contain fibroblasts. They also contain bundles of collagenous fibres in organized arrays.
  • These are similar in structure to ligaments and tendons.
  • They appear pearly-white, iridescent and usually glistening.
  • Meagerly supplied with blood vessels.

Tendon

  • Tough, whitish cords with differing thickness and length, lacking elasticity.
  • It comprises white-fibrous tissue mostly, wherein their fibrils have an undulating course parallel to one another, united firmly.
  • They are similar to ligaments as both are made of collagen.
  • Meagerly supplied with blood vessels. In its interior, the smaller tendons show no trace of blood vessels.
  • The nerves which supply tendons end in neurotendinous spindles or organs of Golgi

Key Differences Between Aponeurosis And Tendon

The table below depicts the differences between Aponeurosis And Tendon.

Aponeurosis

Tendon

What are they?

Serving as muscle connectors, connecting the muscles with different muscles and segments of the skin.

Type of muscle connectors involved in connecting muscles with associated bones.

Nature

Delicate

Tough

Shape

Ribbon-like, flat comprising several tissues.

These tissues are round-shaped, rope-like.

Location

Seen mostly in the palms and abdomen.

Seen mostly in the shoulder or heel region.

Role

Maintains strength and stability of the body.

Induces flexibility, allows body movement.

Occurrence of Injuries

Less likely.

More likely.

You read some differences between Aponeurosis and Tendons. For more such articles, visit us at BYJU’S NEET.

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