Final answer:
At synovial joints, the joint capsule is reinforced by ligaments which stabilize the joint and hold the bone ends together. These ligaments come in different forms depending on their position relative to the articulating capsule and are essential for maintaining joint integrity and preventing excessive movement.
Step-by-step explanation:
At synovial joints, the joint capsule is reinforced by ligaments that help stabilize the joint and bind together the bone ends.
Synovial joints allow for smooth movements between bones, with joint stability provided by a range of structures. The ends of the bones at a synovial joint are covered with articular cartilage which together with synovial fluid in the joint capsule, enables frictionless movement. The entire joint is encompassed by an articular capsule, composed of connective tissue, which provides the necessary constraints to movement, preventing dislocation.
The ligaments supporting the joint hold the bones together and resist excess or abnormal joint motions. They are categorized based on their position relative to the articular capsule as intrinsic, extrinsic, or intracapsular ligaments. While muscles and their tendons provide additional support to the joint by increasing contractile strength when necessary, it is the ligaments that primarily reinforce the synovial joint capsule.