What is the Difference Between Cartilage and Ligament?

05/15/2025 • Felipe Moraes

The main differences between cartilage and ligaments are their function, structure, and location in the body. Here are the key differences:

  1. Function: Cartilage is a soft, gel-like padding between bones that protects joints and facilitates movement. In contrast, ligaments are elastic bands of tissue that connect bone to bone and provide stability to the joint.
  2. Structure: Cartilage is made up of a tough, flexible tissue found throughout the body, covering the surface of joints and acting as a shock absorber. Ligaments, on the other hand, are made up of elastic fibers and collagen.
  3. Location: Cartilage is found at the ends of bones where they articulate, providing a cushioning effect and allowing bones to slide over one another. Ligaments are found around joints and connect bones to each other, ensuring the joint remains stable.

In summary, cartilage is a soft, gel-like substance that cushions and protects joints, while ligaments are elastic bands that connect bones and provide stability to the joints.

Comparative Table: Cartilage vs Ligament

Here is a table comparing the differences between cartilage and ligaments:

Feature Cartilage Ligament
Definition Cartilage is a soft, gel-like padding between bones that protects joints and facilitates movement. A ligament is an elastic band of tissue that connects bone to bone and provides stability to the joint.
Types There are three types of cartilage: hyaline (most common, found in the ribs, nose, larynx, trachea), fibro- (found in intervertebral discs, joint capsules, ligaments), and elastic (found in the external ear, epiglottis, and larynx). Ligaments are composed of dense, regular connective tissue, containing collagen, elastic, and reticular fibers.
Function Cartilage serves as a shock absorber and allows for smooth movement between joints. It is also a precursor to bone. Ligaments provide stability to the joint by connecting bones and limiting movement.
Structure Cartilage has a flexible structure, consisting of cells called chondrocytes, proteoglycans, and collagen fibers. Ligaments have a fibrous structure, with a dense network of collagen fibers and elastic fibers.
Blood Supply Cartilage is avascular, meaning it has no direct blood supply. Chondrocytes receive nourishment via diffusion from the surrounding environment. Ligaments have a good blood supply, which contributes to their healing and repair.

Read more