At what age do some epiphyseal plates not close completely?

Epiphyseal plates, also known as growth plates, are the areas of growing tissues at the ends of long bones. They allow for the lengthening of bones during growth periods. Typically, these plates close at different ages for different individuals, influenced by factors such as genetics and hormonal changes.

The correct answer, which indicates that some epiphyseal plates may not close completely until around the age of 25, aligns with medical research indicating that while many individuals finish growing and their plates close by the late teens to early twenties, some may experience further growth or delayed closure up through the mid-twenties. This means that certain bones still have the potential for growth or changes in density and shape into the early adult years, depending on the individual’s physiological development.

Understanding this aspect is crucial in athletic training, as it impacts decisions related to injury management, assessment of growth-related issues, and the overall physical development of athletes.