A ligament is the fibrous tissue that connects bone to bone at or near a joint, providing stability for a joint and preventing or limiting a certain amount of joint motion. Ligaments can be a source of pain if they are strained or torn. Related Definitions Muscle Joint Editor’s Top Picks Spinal Anatomy and Back Pain The Graston Technique: An Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Manual Therapy for Back Pain Pulled Back Muscle and Lower Back Strain