What does Wolff's Law of bone physiology explain?

Wolff's Law of bone physiology states that bone adapts to the loads under which it is placed. This means that the internal structure of bone can change in response to stresses and strains, with bone being deposited in areas where it is needed for support and strength and being resorbed in areas where it is not. For example, athletes may develop denser and stronger bones in areas subjected to greater mechanical load from their activities, such as runners having strong leg bones.

This adaptability underscores the principle that the functional demands placed on bones can lead to structural changes, making it critical for understanding bone health, rehabilitation, and the prevention of injury. The law suggests that consistent mechanical stress can stimulate bone growth and adaptation, while a lack of stress can lead to bone loss.

In contrast, other options focus on aspects that are not covered by Wolff's Law. Nutrient absorption pertains more to metabolic processes than mechanical stress, while regeneration of lost bone tissue involves biological healing rather than functional adaptation. The effects of age on bone density are indicative of chronological changes in bone health but do not relate specifically to the adaptive mechanism described by Wolff's Law.