Great tarsal synovial membrane

Great tarsal synovial membrane (also known as capsula articularis) is a part of the human anatomy specifically located in the foot. It is a synovial membrane that surrounds the tarsal bones in the foot, providing lubrication and nutrition to the joint.

Etymology

The term "synovial" is derived from the Greek word "synovia," which means "like an egg," referring to the viscous fluid found in the joints. The term "tarsal" is derived from the Greek word "tarsos," meaning "flat surface," referring to the flat bones in the foot.

Anatomy

The great tarsal synovial membrane is a type of synovial joint that is found in the foot. It surrounds the tarsal bones, which are a group of seven bones located in the foot, between the lower parts of the leg and the metatarsals. These bones include the talus, calcaneus, navicular, three cuneiform bones, and the cuboid.

The synovial membrane is a specialized connective tissue that lines the inner surface of capsules of synovial joints and tendon sheath. It makes direct contact with the synovial fluid lubricant, which it secretes.

Function

The primary function of the great tarsal synovial membrane is to provide lubrication and nutrition to the tarsal bones in the foot. The synovial fluid produced by the membrane reduces friction between the articular cartilage of synovial joints during movement.

Related Terms

• Synovial joint: A type of joint that is surrounded by a thick flexible membrane forming a sac into which is secreted a viscous fluid that lubricates the joint.
• Tarsal bones: A group of seven bones in the foot.
• Synovial fluid: A viscous, non-Newtonian fluid found in the cavities of synovial joints.

See Also

• Synovial membrane
• Tarsus (skeleton)
• Human skeleton