A band of tough, fibrous, partly elastic tissue. Ligaments are important components of joints; they bind the bone ends together and prevent excessive movement. They also support various internal organs. Minor ligament injuries such as sprains are treated with ice, bandaging, and sometimes physiotherapy. If a ligament has been torn (ruptured), the joint is either immobilized by a plaster cast to allow healing or repaired surgically.
Ligament |
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