Tendons, Ligaments, & Cartilage

Objectives Given 50 minutes, students will distinguish between tendons, ligaments, and cartilage. Students will also identify the tendons, ligaments, and cartilage in the major joints of the body.

Tendon – a connective tissue attaching muscle to bone Tendon – a connective tissue attaching muscle to bone. When a muscle contracts to move a joint, it is the tendon which pulls on the bone.

Types of Tendon Injuries Most tendon injuries are the result of gradual wear and tear to the tendon from overuse or aging. Categorized as STRAINS. Primary – There is inflammation and swelling in the tendon (Tendinitis). Secondary – There may be a partial tear of the tendon causing pain and weakness. Tertiary – There is complete rupture of the tendon. There may be little pain but complete loss of function, e.g., Ruptured Achilles tendon.

Tendon Injuries Symptoms Treatment pain, stiffness, and loss of strength in the affected area. The area may be tender, red, warm, or swollen if there is inflammation. Treatment Rest the painful area, and avoid any activity that makes the pain worse. Apply ice or cold packs for 10 to 15 minutes at a time, as often as 2 times an hour, for the first 72 hours. Take over-the-counter pain relievers. Do gentle range of motion exercises and stretching to prevent stiffness. Surgery for ruptures.

Achilles Tendon

Kobe’s Ruptured Achilles

Biceps Tendon

Ruptured Biceps Tendon

Ligaments - are strong bands which connect bones to bones at the joint Ligaments - are strong bands which connect bones to bones at the joint. They're elastic to allow the movement of that joint, but are strong enough to stop movement outside the normal range.

Types of Ligament Injuries Categorized as SPRAINS. Grade I Sprain: 
Grade I sprains cause stretching of the ligament. The symptoms tend to be limited to pain and swelling. Most patients can walk without crutches, but may not be able to jog or jump. Grade II Sprain:
A grade II sprain is more severe partial tearing of the ligament. There is usually more significant swelling and bruising caused by bleeding under the skin. Patients often have pain with walking, but can take a few steps. Grade III Sprain:
Grade III sprains are complete tears of the ligaments. The joint is usually quite painful, and walking can be difficult. Patients may complain of instability, or a giving-way sensation in the joint.

Ligament Injuries Symptoms Treatment You hear or feel a pop or snap at the time of the sprain. The joint gives way, especially during heavy physical activity. This may occur if a joint in the lower arm or leg is affected. You have sudden pain or swelling in the joint. The pain is often worse when you touch the affected area. The injured area may be bruised and feel warm when touched. You have trouble moving the joint. Treatment R.I.C.E. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAID) medicine, such as Ibuprofin and aspirin. Physical therapy to teach you special exercises to help improve strength and decrease loss of movement/function.

Knee Ligaments

RG3’s Knee Injury

Ankle Ligaments

Sprained Ankle

Cartilage - is a soft cushioning substance which covers the ends of the bones. It acts as a shock absorber and reduces the rubbing of the bone surfaces.

Meniscus

Labrum of the Shoulder

Review Tendons Ligaments Cartilage Connect muscle to bone Strains Ex. Achilles tendon & biceps tendon Ligaments Connect bone to bone Sprains Ex. ACL, MCL, LCL, PCL, and ankle ligaments Cartilage Use for cushioning of joints Ex. Meniscus and Labrum