Functions of Connective Tissue

Connective tissue plays a vital role in providing structure, support, and flexibility to the body. Each type of connective tissue has specific characteristics and functions related to maintaining stability and facilitating movement.

1. Cartilage

• About:
  • A firm yet flexible connective tissue found in joints, the rib cage, ear, nose, and intervertebral discs.
  • Composed of chondrocytes (cartilage cells) embedded in a gel-like matrix.
• Functions:
  • Provides smooth surfaces for joint movement, reducing friction.
  • Absorbs shock and distributes weight in load-bearing joints.
  • Maintains the shape and flexibility of certain structures (e.g., ear, nose).
• Examples:
  • Hyaline Cartilage: Found in joints, trachea, and nasal septum.
  • Elastic Cartilage: Found in the ear and epiglottis.
  • Fibrocartilage: Found in intervertebral discs and menisci of the knee.

2. Tendons

• About:
  • Dense, fibrous connective tissue that connects muscles to bones.
  • Composed primarily of collagen fibers, providing tensile strength.
• Functions:
  • Transmit forces generated by muscles to bones, enabling movement.
  • Stabilize joints during activity.
  • Withstand tensile stress during muscle contraction.
• Examples:
  • Achilles tendon (connects calf muscles to the heel bone).
  • Patellar tendon (connects the quadriceps to the tibia).

3. Ligaments

• About:
  • Dense, fibrous connective tissue that connects bones to other bones.
  • Slightly more elastic than tendons to allow for joint flexibility.
• Functions:
  • Provide joint stability by limiting excessive movement.
  • Maintain the alignment of bones during movement.
  • Protect joints from dislocation or injury.
• Examples:
  • Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL): Stabilizes the knee.
  • Ulnar collateral ligament (UCL): Supports the elbow joint.