What percentage of a ligament's wet weight is water?

Ligaments are connective tissues that play a crucial role in stabilizing joints and facilitating movement. Approximately two-thirds of a ligament's wet weight is composed of water, which is essential for maintaining the tissue's flexibility and tensile strength. This high water content allows ligaments to withstand the mechanical forces they encounter during activities, while also enabling them to have some degree of hydration that is vital for metabolic processes. The remaining weight consists of collagen fibers, elastin, and other extracellular matrix components that provide structural integrity and elasticity. Understanding this composition is essential for professionals in orthopaedic rehabilitation, as it informs strategies for tissue healing and recovery following injuries.