In this model the human body is viewed as a collection of jointed segments. Simple biomechanical models consider only a few segments. The following model is somewhat more complex and includes more segments. Even so, it is a gross oversimplification, as the human body is composed of over 200 bones, plus associated connective tissue and articulations. They are the lever arms at which muscles pull.
Ligaments connect bones and provide wrapping material around joints.
Tendons are strong but elastic elongations of muscle. They connect muscles with bones. The tendons that connect the muscles of the forearm to the bones of the fingers are particularly important as they control finger movements which are need for precise manipulation. Carpal tunnel syndrome is a repetitive strain disorder that affects the movement of tendons within a restricted tunnel that passes through the wrist. We discuss carpal tunnel syndrome in more detail in the lecture on hand tools.