What structure connects muscles to bones?

The structure that connects muscles to bones is tendons. Tendons are strong, flexible bands of connective tissue that are composed primarily of collagen. They serve the critical function of transmitting the force generated by muscle contractions to the bones, which is essential for movement. This connection allows muscles to pull on bones, enabling joint movement and locomotion.

Tendons are designed to withstand tension, making them efficient structures for their role in the musculoskeletal system. They typically have a lower blood supply than other tissues, which contributes to a slower healing process when they are injured. Understanding the role of tendons is crucial in fields such as rehabilitation and sports medicine because injuries to tendons can significantly impact movement and function.

In contrast, ligaments connect bones to other bones at joints, providing stability but not directly connecting muscles to bones. Cartilage is a flexible connective tissue that provides cushioning and support within joints, while fascia is a layer of connective tissue that surrounds muscles, groups of muscles, blood vessels, and nerves, connecting them but not directly linking muscles to bones.