What structure connects two bones at a joint and helps stabilize it?A. Muscle B. Tendon C. Ligament D. Nerve
Answer (1)
The answer is C. Ligament A ligament is a tough, fibrous connective tissue that connects one bone to another bone at a joint. Ligaments are essential for joint stability, guiding joint motion while preventing excessive or abnormal movements that could cause injury.Ligaments are made mostly of collagen, a protein that provides strength and flexibility. They allow for controlled movement in the joint while resisting sudden twists or bends that could lead to dislocation or sprain.Examples of important ligaments include:ACL (Anterior Cruciate Ligament) in the knee — helps prevent the shin bone from sliding too far forward.Deltoid ligament in the ankle — provides medial support.Ligaments in the spine — help keep vertebrae aligned and supported.Ligaments are different from:Tendons, which connect muscle to bone.Muscles, which contract to create movement.Nerves, which carry signals.When ligaments are overstretched or torn, it leads to a sprain, a common injury in athletes. Severe sprains may require surgery and rehabilitation. Repeated ligament injuries can weaken a joint over time, leading to chronic instability.Ligaments are relatively slow to heal because they lack direct blood supply, unlike muscles. That’s why rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE method) are important in early injury management.In anatomy, learning about ligaments helps students understand joint mechanics, injury prevention, and physical therapy. It also reinforces the idea that movement involves multiple connected tissues working together in harmony.
