Physis

Physis refers to the growth zone located at the ends of long bones in children and adolescents. It is made of cartilage and is responsible for the lengthening of bones during development. As a person matures, this cartilage gradually ossifies or hardens into solid bone, effectively closing the growth plate and stopping further lengthwise growth. The physis plays a crucial role in determining final adult height, and its health can impact bone development and growth disorders.