What is the function of tendons in the body?

Tendons play a crucial role in the musculoskeletal system by connecting muscle to bone. This connection enables muscles to exert force on bones, facilitating movement of the body. When a muscle contracts, it pulls on the tendon, which in turn pulls on the bone, resulting in movement at the joint. This direct link is essential for locomotion and various bodily movements, as it translates the biological energy produced by muscle contraction into mechanical energy that moves the skeletal structure.

In contrast, tendons do not connect muscle to muscle, provide support to bone structure, or facilitate blood circulation. Each of those functions is served by different types of tissues: ligaments connect bone to bone, cartilage supports bone structure, and blood vessels are responsible for circulation. Understanding the specific role of tendons clarifies the overall structure and function within the body's movement system.