What is the name for a broad, flat tendon?

What is the name for a broad, flat tendon?

• A. Aponeurosis
• B. Ligament
• C. Fascia
• D. Tendon

Answer: (A)

A broad, flat tendon is called an aponeurosis. It’s a sheet-like extension of dense connective tissue that spreads the force of a muscle over a wide area, attaching to bone, skin, or other tissues rather than via a single cord. This flat form contrasts with a tendon, which is typically rope-like and attaches muscle to bone, and with fascia, which surrounds and compartmentalizes muscles and other structures. Ligaments connect bone to bone, not muscle to another structure. Examples include the galea aponeurotica of the scalp and the plantar or palmar aponeuroses.

A broad, flat tendon is called an aponeurosis. It’s a sheet-like extension of dense connective tissue that spreads the force of a muscle over a wide area, attaching to bone, skin, or other tissues rather than via a single cord. This flat form contrasts with a tendon, which is typically rope-like and attaches muscle to bone, and with fascia, which surrounds and compartmentalizes muscles and other structures. Ligaments connect bone to bone, not muscle to another structure. Examples include the galea aponeurotica of the scalp and the plantar or palmar aponeuroses.