How are muscles attached to bones?

Muscles are attached to bones by tendons, which are strong connective tissues. Tendons serve as the intermediary structure that connects muscle fibers to the skeletal system, enabling movement of the bones when muscles contract. When a muscle is activated, it pulls on the tendon, which, in turn, exert force on the bone to create motion at a joint. This connection is crucial for locomotion and various bodily movements, making tendons essential components of the musculoskeletal system.

In contrast, ligaments primarily connect bones to other bones, providing joint stability. Cartilage serves as a cushion between bones and facilitates smooth movement at joints, while fascia is a connective tissue that surrounds muscles and organs, but does not serve as the direct point of attachment between muscles and bones. This distinction is important in understanding the roles of different connective tissues in the body.