Tendons and ligaments are strong bands of tissue that hold the body together and help it move. Tendons connect muscles to bones, while ligaments connect bones to other bones. When these tissues are stretched too far, torn, or overused, they can become painful and make movement difficult. These injuries are common in the ankles, knees, wrists, elbows, and shoulders.
Common signs include pain, swelling, tenderness, stiffness, and a feeling of weakness or instability in the joint. Some injuries come with a pop at the moment they happen, followed by bruising.
