Tendon sheaths are best described as which of the following?

Tendon sheaths are best described as which of the following?

• A. Elongated synovial membranes wrap around tendons in tight spaces to reduce friction
• B. Bag of lubricant
• C. Protective sacs
• D. Connective tissue around nerves

Answer: (A)

Tendon sheaths are elongated synovial membranes that wrap around a tendon as it passes through tight spaces, providing a smooth, low-friction surface as the tendon glides during movement. They secrete synovial fluid to lubricate the tendon, preventing wear and making flexion and extension efficient, especially in areas like the fingers. The description “bag of lubricant” is imprecise because it emphasizes the fluid but not the wrapping membrane that enables controlled gliding; “protective sacs” points to bursae, which cushion joints rather than enclose a tendon; and “connective tissue around nerves” describes a different structure. So the most accurate view is the elongated synovial membranes wrapping around tendons in tight spaces to reduce friction.

Tendon sheaths are elongated synovial membranes that wrap around a tendon as it passes through tight spaces, providing a smooth, low-friction surface as the tendon glides during movement. They secrete synovial fluid to lubricate the tendon, preventing wear and making flexion and extension efficient, especially in areas like the fingers. The description “bag of lubricant” is imprecise because it emphasizes the fluid but not the wrapping membrane that enables controlled gliding; “protective sacs” points to bursae, which cushion joints rather than enclose a tendon; and “connective tissue around nerves” describes a different structure. So the most accurate view is the elongated synovial membranes wrapping around tendons in tight spaces to reduce friction.