Muscles are attached to bones by what structure?

Muscles are attached to bones by tendons, which are strong, fibrous connective tissues that secure muscle to bone, enabling movement. When a muscle contracts, it pulls on the tendon, which in turn pulls on the bone, facilitating motion at the joint. Tendons have a unique composition that provides the strength and flexibility necessary to withstand the forces exerted during muscle contractions.

Ligaments, while also connective tissues, connect bones to other bones at joints, providing stability and support. Cartilage is a flexible tissue that covers the ends of bones at joints and provides cushioning, but it does not attach muscles to bones. Fascia is a layer of connective tissue that surrounds and separates muscles and organs but is not involved in the direct attachment of muscles to bones. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for recognizing the roles various structures play in the musculoskeletal system.