Bone growth and development

Bone growth and development involve processes where bones expand and mature primarily through the activity of specialized cells. During childhood and adolescence, cartilage at the ends of bones is gradually replaced by hard bone tissue in growth plates, allowing bones to lengthen. Osteoblasts are cells that build new bone, while osteoclasts break down old bone, ensuring proper shape and strength. As we mature, growth plates close, stopping lengthening, and bones continue to remodel to maintain their structure. Overall, this dynamic process ensures bones grow, heal, and adapt throughout life.