Muscles, Tendons, Ligaments
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Muscles, Tendons, Ligaments
Muscles are composed of thousands of fibres which flex and extend to provide movement. Muscles are arranged in overlapping layers or bands; and are controlled by the nerves. Almost all muscles work in pairs or groups in their function. When muscles work together in opposition in order to perform (flex/extend) they are referred to as antagonistic pairs of performance.
Tendons are the cords which extend from the muscles & attach the muscle to the bone. Tendons are made up of collagen, a birous tissue. Tendons have a poor blood supply; so if damaged, heal very slowly and with great difficulty. Tendons are designed to stretch up to 4% of their actual length, and are usually the area that receives damage from strain or overexertion.
The ligaments are what join bone to the bone. Ligaments are rigid bands of fibrous tissue. Ligaments support/regulate movement of the joints. Ligaments have very little elasticity.
