While both tendons and ligaments are types of connective tissue, their construction differs. Ligaments are composed largely of elastin, a stretchable fibrous protein. Tendons are made of collagen and are essentially inflexible. When pushed beyond their capacity, tendons can develop microtears. Glucosamine and vitamin C play a role in the formation of new collagen.
Most athletes eventually experience joint injury.
Various traumas can harm the cartilage that lines joint surfaces. Cartilage, a plastic-like tissue, is made of thick bundles of collagen. It functions as a shock absorber, cushioning the joint with every movement. Both substances continuously construct and reconstruct cartilage. Glucosamine is the major precursor of GAGs.