Table of Contents
Aponeurosis – Definition
Aponeurosis is a tendon-like material that provides anchorage to muscles and provides wide-area attachment to the sheet-like muscles. The main function of aponeurosis is to join muscles and the associated body parts together.
They are shiny, pearly-white fibrous tissue that share histological similarities to tendons. They are poorly supplied with nerves and blood vessels. Aponeuroses can be commonly found in palms, soles, ventriculus (in birds), lumbar region and ventral abdominal region.
These structures are important for posture and movement. As our muscles move, aponeuroses absorb energy and provide strength and stability.
Aponeurosis vs Tendon
Aponeurosis is very similar to tendons but they differ structurally. They both function to attach muscles to bones. When you move your muscle either by flexing it or extending it, aponeurosis acts like a spring and absorbs pressure and tension.
Conversely, during the same muscle movements, the tendons stretch and contract giving us flexibility. Thus, it can be concluded that aponeurosis gives strength and stability to muscles whereas tendons give flexibility to muscles.
Tendons and aponeuroses are both made up of dense fibrous connective tissues but differ in their morphology.
Aponeurosis is a delicate and thin layer of tissue that contains collagen-releasing cells, called fibroblasts. The tissue is made up of collagen bundles that are arranged in a parallel manner, providing a strong base. The aponeuroses have less chances of getting damaged because they are hidden below many layers of muscles and bones.
Tendons are rough and thick structures that extend from the muscle. They are tougher in nature and are more likely to get damaged because they are not hidden below muscles or bones.
Read More: What is Tendon and Its Function in the Human Body?
Anatomy and Examples
- Anterior abdominal aponeuroses: The anterior abdominal aponeuroses is found above the abdominal muscle and is bordered by the pectoralis muscles, latissimus dorsi and external oblique.
- Posterior lumbar aponeuroses: The posterior lumbar aponeurosis is found above the epaxial muscles of the thorax. The two epaxial muscles of the thorax are sacrospinalis and multifidus spinae.
- Palmar and plantar aponeurosis and extensor hood: The palmar aponeurosis is found in the palms of the hands, the plantar aponeurosis is found in the sole of the foot, and the extensor hoods are found at the back of the fingers.
- Posterior and anterior intercostal membranes: The posterior and anterior intercostal membranes are found between the ribs, they are in continuity with the internal and external intercostal muscles.
- Scalp aponeurosis: Also known as epicranial aponeurosis, they are found on the upper part of the skull running anteriorly from the frontalis muscle and posteriorly from the occipitalis muscle.
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