Retinaculum Explained

A retinaculum (: retinacula) is a band of thickened deep fascia around tendons that holds them in place.^[1] It is not part of any muscle. Its function is mostly to stabilize a tendon. The term retinaculum is Neo-Latin,^[2] derived from the Latin verb retinere (to retain). Specific retinacula include:

• In the wrist:
  • Flexor retinaculum of the hand
  • Extensor retinaculum of the hand
• In the ankle:
  • Flexor retinaculum of foot
  • Superior extensor retinaculum of foot
  • Inferior extensor retinaculum of foot
  • Superior fibular retinaculum
  • Inferior fibular retinaculum
• In the knee:
  • Lateral retinaculum
  • Medial patellar retinaculum

Notes and References

1. Web site: UAMS Department of Neurobiology and Developmental Sciences - Fascia and Membrane Tables. anatomy.uams.edu. 2019-04-13.
2. Web site: Definition of RETINACULUM.