Growth Plate Closure and Cartilage Development in Orthopedics

Developmental issues

Hello, Doctor.
Thank you for your patience.
I have a few questions to ask you.

The first question is: If the growth plates of the bones have closed, can we also conclude that the cartilage between the joints (such as the cartilage in the knee and spine) will no longer grow thicker? Doctors often say that once the growth plates close, a person will not grow taller, but cartilage should also contribute a small portion to height.
Therefore, does the closure of the growth plates also indicate that the development of cartilage is complete?
The second question is: For an adult over 25 years old, should the thickness of the cartilage be fixed and not increase any further?
Lastly, I would like to ask: During the metabolic processes of cartilage, is its thickness also fixed?
Thank you, Doctor.
I really appreciate your help.

Molly, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/05/05

Dr. Wang Shouji reply Orthopedics

Hello, cartilage is an elastic structure that does not have a significant impact on height; the length of the bones is the primary factor affecting height.
The thickest part of the articular cartilage is less than 0.5 cm, which has little effect on height.
Changhua Hospital cares about your health.
Wang Shou-ji.

Reply Date: 2020/05/05

More Info

Understanding the growth plate closure and cartilage development is crucial in orthopedics, especially when it comes to growth and development in children and adolescents. Let's address your questions one by one.

1. Growth Plate Closure and Cartilage Growth: When the growth plates, or epiphyseal plates, close, it typically indicates that the long bones have reached their maximum length. This closure is a result of the transition from cartilage to bone, which occurs during puberty due to hormonal changes. While it is true that the closure of the growth plates signifies that the bones will no longer grow in length, it does not necessarily mean that the cartilage in the joints, such as the knee or spine, will not continue to undergo changes. The articular cartilage, which covers the ends of bones in joints, can still experience some remodeling and adaptation due to mechanical stress and other factors, but it does not grow in thickness in the same way that growth plates do. Therefore, while the growth plates closing indicates that longitudinal growth has ceased, it does not directly correlate with the complete cessation of all cartilage development or changes.

2. Cartilage Thickness in Adults Over 25: In adults, particularly those over the age of 25, the cartilage thickness is generally considered to be stable. However, it is important to note that cartilage can undergo changes due to various factors such as aging, physical activity, and the presence of joint diseases like osteoarthritis. While the cartilage does not grow thicker in the same way that it does during childhood and adolescence, it can still be affected by wear and tear, leading to thinning or degeneration over time. Therefore, while the baseline thickness may be relatively fixed, it is subject to change based on lifestyle and health conditions.

3. Cartilage Metabolism and Thickness: Cartilage metabolism is a dynamic process involving the synthesis and degradation of its components, primarily collagen and proteoglycans. While the overall thickness of cartilage may remain relatively stable in healthy adults, the metabolic activity within the cartilage can lead to changes in its composition and quality. Factors such as mechanical loading, nutrition, and hormonal influences can affect this metabolism. For instance, regular physical activity can stimulate cartilage health, while a sedentary lifestyle may contribute to degeneration. Therefore, while the thickness may not change significantly, the health and functionality of the cartilage can be influenced by metabolic processes.

In summary, the closure of growth plates signifies the end of longitudinal bone growth, but it does not mean that all cartilage development has ceased. Cartilage in joints can still undergo remodeling and changes due to various factors, and while adults may have stable cartilage thickness, it can be influenced by lifestyle and health conditions. Understanding these nuances is essential for managing orthopedic health and addressing any potential issues related to growth and cartilage development. If you have further questions or concerns, it is always best to consult with a healthcare professional who can provide personalized advice based on your specific situation.

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