Enthesis

Enthesis is the connection between a tendon and a bone. It is an important anatomical structure that plays a role in maintaining skeletal movement and stability. Entheses are found in various parts of the body, including the hands, feet, knees, hips, and spine.

A tendon is a thick band of tissue that connects muscles to bones. When muscles contract, the tendon stretches, transmitting movement to the bone and allowing us to move. In this case, the tendon experiences a lot of tension and load, so its connection to the bone must be quite strong and stable.

In enthesis, the tendon is inserted into the bone, a process controlled by special cells called osteoblasts. Osteoblasts create new bone tissue around the tendon, forming what is called a “bone insert.” This insert increases the contact area between the tendon and bone, which increases the stability of the enthesis.

However, if the enthesis is subjected to overuse or injury, it can become inflamed and painful. This condition is called enthesopathy. Enthesopathy can develop as a result of repetitive microtrauma associated with repetitive movements, such as during sports or intense work. Enthesopathy may also be associated with inflammatory diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis.

Various methods may be used to treat enthesopathy, including physical therapy, medications, and injections of drugs to promote tissue healing. In some cases, surgery may be required.

In conclusion, the enthesis is an important structure that provides the connection between tendon and bone. Its proper functioning is necessary to maintain skeletal movement and stability. However, if the enthesis is damaged, enthesopathy occurs, which can lead to pain and dysfunction. Therefore, it is important to consult a specialist for any enthesis-related symptoms.

Enthesis (from the Greek enthesis - tension, stretching) is the connection of a tendon with a bone. Entheses provide strong fixation of muscles to the skeleton and transmission of muscle forces to the bones.

Tendons are attached to bones using special ligaments - entheses. At the junction of the tendon and bone there is a cartilaginous or fibrous layer that softens the mechanical impact and prevents damage. Histologically, the enthesis is divided into 4 zones: the zone of fibrous tendon, non-calcified fibrocartilage, mineralized fibrocartilage and bone.

Thus, entheses play an important role in transmitting forces from muscles to bones, allowing joint mobility and body movement. Damage in the entheses area can lead to the development of pain syndromes and impaired muscle function.