What component is critical to maintaining proper joint movement?

The component that is critical to maintaining proper joint movement is muscles. Muscles are responsible for generating the force necessary for movement, allowing joints to function effectively. When muscles contract, they pull on tendons, which are attached to bones, facilitating motion at the joints. The coordinated activity of muscles around a joint is essential for stability and mobility.

While ligaments, tendons, and cartilage play important roles in the structure and support of joints, it is the muscles that actively oversee the movement. Ligaments connect bones to bones and provide stability, while tendons attach muscles to bones, supporting the action of muscles. Cartilage acts as a cushion between bones in a joint, helping to reduce friction and absorb shock. However, without the action of muscles to initiate and control movement, the joint cannot function effectively. Thus, muscles are the critical component for maintaining proper joint movement.