Structure
Bursae are sac-like structures, with an inner synovial membrane, that produces a thin film of synovial fluid. They aid in reducing friction between moving tissues of the body, such as between tendon and bone, ligament and bone, tendons and ligaments, and between muscles.
Inflammation of the bursa is known as bursitis. If the inflammation is due to injury or strain, it is known as aseptic bursitis. However, if the inflammation is caused by infection, it is known as septic bursitis.
Related parts of the anatomy
Anatomical Relations
The subtendinous calcaneal bursa is located between the posterior surface of the calcaneus bone and the distal part of the calcaneal (Achilles’) tendon. The anterior wall of this bursa is fibrocartilaginous, while the posterior wall is relatively thin and blends with the outer fibers (epitendon) of the calcaneal tendon (Standring, 2016).
Function
The subtendinous calcaneal bursa allows the calcaneal tendon to glide over the calcaneus bone.
List of Clinical Correlates
—Calcaneal bursitis
—Haglund’s disease
References
Standring, S. (2016) Gray's Anatomy: The Anatomical Basis of Clinical Practice. Gray's Anatomy Series 41st edn.: Elsevier Limited.
Learn more about this topic from other Elsevier products
Synovial Bursa
A synovial bursa is a simple sac lying between a tendon or muscle and an adjacent bony prominence.
