ligament – tough bands of fibrous tissue that connect bones to bones

(Pronounced lig-ah-ment)

To remember the meaning of ligament, use the following mnemonic:

A ligature is meant (ligament) to stop bleeding, but instead it is used to tie these two paper bones together.

Ligaments are tough, fibrous connective tissues that connect bone to bone at joints throughout the body. They are composed primarily of collagen fibres that provide strength and some elasticity, allowing them to stretch slightly but then return to their original length.

The main function of ligaments is to stabilise joints by preventing excessive movement that could cause dislocation or injury, while still allowing the normal range of motion required to function. Common examples include the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in the knee, which prevents the shinbone from sliding forward relative to the thighbone, and the ligaments in the ankle that prevent the ankle having excessive sideways movement. Unlike tendons which connect muscle to bone, ligaments specifically connect bone to bone and are crucial for joint stability and preventing injury during physical activity.