What Are the Functions of Ligaments?

A ligament is a dense tissue that connects bones to other bones to form a joint. A good example would be the knee joint, which contains several ligaments like the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) or the medial collateral ligament (MCL).

Function

A joint is where two or more bones come together in the skeleton. Ligaments are present in every joint to hold the bones in place and prevent dislocation.

Other Functions

In addition to joints, ligaments also help keep many internal organs in place, like the bladder, uterus and diaphragm.

Features

Ligaments are tough bands, slightly elastic, of white connective tissue.

Protection

Ligaments also protect bones from breakage by acting as shock absorbers for the skeleton.

Confusion

Ligaments should not be confused with tendons, which connect muscle to bone and are a different thing entirely.

References

• Pet Place
• Internet Encyclopedia of Science