Why do we have ligaments and tendons?

Ligaments:

> Joint Stability: Ligaments are primarily responsible for providing stability to joints by connecting bones to bones. They function like strong, fibrous cords that hold the bones together, preventing excessive movement or dislocation. They are crucial in maintaining the structural integrity of joints and ensuring their normal range of motion.

Examples:

1. Collateral Ligaments in the knee

2. Ligamentum Teres in the hip

3. Pubic Ligament in the pelvis

Tendons:

> Force Transmission: Tendons serve as flexible connectors between muscles and bones. Their primary function is to transmit the forces generated by muscle contractions to the skeletal system. When muscles contract, they pull on the tendons, resulting in movement of the associated bones or body parts. This allows for precise and controlled movements of the limbs and other body structures.

Examples:

1. Achilles Tendon connecting the calf muscles to the heel bone

2. Patellar Tendon linking the quadriceps muscles to the kneecap

3. Biceps Tendon connecting the biceps muscle to the radius bone in the forearm

Together, ligaments and tendons play vital roles in our musculoskeletal system:

- Ligaments ensure joint stability and integrity, while tendons efficiently transfer muscle forces to bones, enabling us to perform varied movements with precision and balance.