What are the strips of tissue which connect bones together?

The strips of tissue that connect bones together are called ligaments. These tough, fibrous bands connect one bone to another, especially around joints, where they help keep the skeleton stable while still allowing controlled movement.

Ligaments are often confused with tendons, but they connect different structures. Ligaments join bone to bone; tendons attach muscle to bone and transmit the force needed to move a joint. For example, the anterior cruciate ligament, or ACL, helps stabilize the knee, while the Achilles tendon connects calf muscles to the heel bone.

A ligament can be stretched or torn when a joint is forced beyond its normal range. A mild injury is commonly called a sprain, while a complete tear may require extensive rehabilitation or surgery. Ligaments also contain sensory nerve endings that help the brain sense joint position, an ability known as proprioception.