What is the role of ligaments in the human body?

Ligaments play a crucial role in the human body by connecting bone to bone, which helps to reinforce and stabilize joints. Their primary function is to maintain the integrity of the joint structure, ensuring that bones remain appropriately aligned during movement. This connection is vital for providing support and limiting excessive movement that could lead to injuries, such as dislocations or sprains.

Unlike tendons, which connect muscles to bones and are essential for movement, ligaments focus specifically on joint stability and maintaining the structural integrity of the skeletal system. This stabilizing function is key in various activities, from daily movements to complex athletic performance, highlighting the importance of ligaments in overall physical health and function.