Explore
@mayalee_6about 1 month ago
Can someone explain the difference between tendons and ligaments?
I get confused between tendons and ligaments, since both are connective tissues and seem kind of similar. Can someone explain in simple terms what the main differences are, both in terms of structure and function? Also, are injuries to tendons and ligaments treated differently, and if so, why? Any good analogies or diagrams would be appreciated!
9.4k
Replies (3)
?
D
@daisy.reed_5
Tendons connect muscle to bone, while ligaments connect bone to bone. Tendons help move your joints when muscles contract, and ligaments stabilize joints. That’s why a torn ligament (like an ACL) can make your knee unstable.
about 1 month ago
B
@ben.turner
Think of tendons as the “ropes” that pull bones when muscles contract, and ligaments as the “straps” that hold bones together at a joint. Both are made of collagen, but their roles are pretty different.
about 1 month ago
C
@chloehill_4
Tendons are usually stronger and less stretchy than ligaments because they need to transmit force. Ligaments are a bit more elastic to allow some movement but also prevent too much motion that could dislocate a joint.
about 1 month ago