Discs that are required for normal bone lengthening are called what?

• A. Epiphyseal Discs
• B. Intervertebral Discs
• C. Meniscal Discs
• D. Articular Discs

Answer: (A)

Discs that drive bone lengthening are the epiphyseal discs. These growth plates sit between the ends (epiphyses) and shafts (diaphyses) of long bones and are made of cartilage that continuously grows and is gradually replaced by bone. Through endochondral ossification, new bone forms on the shaft side while the cartilage cartilage expands the bone lengthwise, allowing normal height increase during childhood and adolescence. When puberty ends, the plates fuse and length growth stops.

Intervertebral discs cushion the spine, not growth in length; meniscal discs in the knee provide shock absorption and stability; articular discs within joints improve how surfaces glide.