A ligament is a tough, fibrous band of connective tissue that connects bones to other bones or supports internal organs. Made primarily of collagen and elastin fibres, they provide joint stability, allow for controlled movement, and prevent excessive or damaging motions.

Key Characteristics

  • Primary Function: They stabilize joints by connecting bone to bone, ensuring bones do not twist excessively or dislocate.
  • Other Roles: Some ligaments do not connect to bones but instead hold internal organs (like the liver, stomach, and uterus) in place within the abdominal and pelvic cavities.
  • Ligament vs. Tendon: While ligaments connect bone to bone, tendons are separate bands of connective tissue that connect muscle to bone.

Common Injuries

Because ligaments have a limited blood supply, injuries take a long time to heal. Overstretching or tearing a ligament results in a sprain, which is often characterized by sudden pain, swelling, or a “popping” sound

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