What role do ligaments play in the body?

Ligaments are essential components of the musculoskeletal system, primarily responsible for connecting bones to other bones, or sometimes to cartilage. This connection provides stability and support to joints, ensuring they function correctly and maintaining the structural integrity of the skeleton. Ligaments are composed of dense, fibrous connective tissue, which allows them to withstand stress and help prevent excessive movement that could lead to injuries.

Understanding the role of ligaments highlights their importance not just in joint stability but also in overall body mechanics. They help in maintaining proper alignment during movements and activities, and their function is crucial in mobility and weight-bearing activities. This supportive role fosters proper joint alignment, reducing the risk of arthritis and other joint-related issues.

The other options focus on different aspects of the musculoskeletal system: muscles connect to bones through tendons, cushioning and shock absorption are primarily functions of cartilage, and movement of the body is largely enabled by muscles acting on bones. While these aspects are significant in their own right, they do not accurately describe the specific role of ligaments.