Leddbåndene

Leddbåndene, or ligaments, are bands of dense connective tissue that connect bone to bone across joints. They are key stabilizing structures of the musculoskeletal system, guiding and limiting joint movements to provide stability while allowing coordinated motion. The tissue is rich in collagen fibers, mainly type I, arranged in parallel bundles. Some ligaments also contain elastic fibers that contribute to a limited degree of stretch and help with proprioception.

Ligaments are classified by their location and relationship to joints. They can be intracapsular (inside a joint capsule) or extrasynovial (outside the capsule), and further described as capsular or extrasynovial based on their association with the joint. Major examples include the knee ligaments—anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), posterior cruciate ligament (PCL), medial collateral ligament (MCL), and lateral collateral ligament (LCL)—as well as the ligaments of the spine, the shoulder, and the ankle. The knee, for instance, contains both cruciate and collateral ligaments that stabilize anterior-posterior and varus-valgus motions.

Functionally, ligaments stabilize joints, restrict excessive or unsafe movements, and contribute to joint proprioception, helping the brain gauge position and movement. They have relatively limited blood supply, which can slow healing after injury.

Injuries to Leddbåndene are common and include sprains or tears from trauma or overuse. Diagnosis typically involves physical examination and imaging, with MRI providing detailed information about ligament integrity. Treatments range from rest and physical therapy to immobilization or surgical reconstruction in severe cases, such as ACL tears, with recovery dependent on the specific ligament and extent of injury.