Ligaments in the skeletal system are composed of connective tissue containing collagen and elastic fibers. Ligaments may be narrow, thick, thin or triangular in shape and form. These tough fibrous cords surround and bind joints together, providing stability to a joint. Ligaments control or restrict excessive movement and link bones together.
Anterior Cruciate Ligament
The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is one of the four stabilizing ligaments located in the knee. It crosses the knee joint in a diagonal direction and prevents the forward movement of the tibia (shin bone). A torn ACL is a common skeletal injury in people who play sports or in anyone who applies a twisting force to the knee. A fall or a direct hit on the knee can cause the anterior cruciate ligament to tear. It is extremely painful, and swelling is usually immediate.
Posterior Cruciate Ligament
The posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) works in conjunction with the ACL to provide stability by preventing the tibia to move backward. A torn PCL may be the result of an automobile accident where the bent knee hits the dashboard, or it may result from falling with your knee bent. If the shinbone hits the ground before the knee, a PCL tear is likely.
Medial Collateral Ligament
The medial collateral ligament (MCL) resists force from the outer surface of the knee. It joins the femur (thigh bone) and tibia to prevent the inner portion of the joint from widening when stressed. Of the two parts of the MCL, one segment attaches to the meniscus (a C-shaped piece of cartilage in your knee) and the other, a band, attaches from the femur down to the tibia.
Lateral Collateral Ligament
The lateral collateral ligament (LCL) works with the MCL for stabilization of the skeletal system. This thin band of tissue runs along the outside of the knee, connecting the thighbone to the fibula (calf bone). A torn LCL is most often the result of a direct hit inside the knee. Sports injuries or repeated stress to the knee are common causes of a torn LCL. LCL tears heal more slowly than MCL tears. Cedars-Sinai reports that surgery may be required to repair the damage, if the ligament is completely torn.
Interspinous Ligaments
Interspinous ligaments are found in the lumbar (lower back) region of the spinal column.The interspinous ligaments run between one spinous process to another, binding the vertebrae together and limiting vertebral column movement.
Ulnar Collateral Ligament
The ulnar collateral ligament is located at the bottom of the thumb, attaching the thumb joint to the palm of the hand. This ligament is susceptible to damage from excessive force that pulls the thumb outward from the hand. Hand University reports that sports injuries, such as those sustained by downhill skiers, are at the top of the list for injuries.
