Tukisiteet

Tukisiteet is a Finnish term used for ligaments that provide mechanical support to joints by connecting bone to bone. They form part of the passive stabilizing structures of the musculoskeletal system and help limit excessive or abnormal joint motion, thereby contributing to joint stability during movement.

Anatomically, tukisiteet consist mainly of dense regular connective tissue rich in type I collagen, organized into parallel bundles that resist tensile forces. They are distinct from tendons, which transmit muscle force to bone. Many tukisiteet contain proprioceptive nerve endings and have relatively limited blood supply, which can result in slower healing after injury.

The primary function of tukisiteet is to stabilize joints, guide movement, and limit ranges of motion to prevent dislocation or injury. When damaged or torn, a joint may become unstable, leading to sprains or chronic laxity. Acute injuries are typically managed with rest, immobilization or bracing, and rehabilitation to restore strength and stability. Severe tears, especially in weightbearing joints such as the knee, may require surgical repair or reconstruction.

Common examples include knee ligaments such as the anterior and posterior cruciate ligaments and the medial and lateral collateral ligaments, as well as ankle ligaments like the deltoid and the lateral ligaments. Other joints contain their own stabilizing tukisiteet, including the shoulder and hip.

Terminology wise, tukisiteet is used in Finnish medical and sports contexts to describe stabilizing ligaments. In English, they are usually referred to as stabilizing ligaments or simply ligaments.