Ligaments bind joints together. They prevent dislocation.

Ligaments are cords or bands that extend between the bones forming a joint. Ligaments resist tension. This makes the joint strong. It also limits the ways a joint can bend. Ligaments allow movements that agree with the function of the joint only.

Torn ligaments in the knee are a common injury in atheletics. To repair this injury, a doctor ties the torn pieces back together. This makes the ligament shorter and it is not as strong. Torn ligaments generally take much longer to heal than torn cartilage.