What is the primary function of tendons in the body?

Tendons are specialized connective tissues that play a crucial role in our musculoskeletal system by connecting muscles to bones. This connection is essential for enabling movement, as when a muscle contracts, the force is transmitted through the tendon to the bone, resulting in joint movement.

In emphasizing this function, it's important to note how tendons differ from other connective tissues in the body. For instance, ligaments connect bone to bone, which helps stabilize joints, while skin is also not directly connected by tendons. Additionally, nerves facilitate communication between the brain and muscles, but they do not form direct connections that involve movement as tendons do. Understanding this distinction illustrates the specific and vital role that tendons play in facilitating movement and supporting our skeletal framework.