According to Wolff's law regarding bone, what leads to adaptation in bone?

Wolff's law states that bone adapts to the loads under which it is placed. Specifically, this means that changes in stress, such as the amount and type of physical forces exerted on the bone, lead to structural adaptations that can increase bone density and strength. When bone experiences increased stress, such as through weight-bearing activities or resistance training, it responds by becoming stronger and denser in the areas of highest stress. Conversely, if there is reduced stress, as might occur with inactivity or immobilization, bone density can decrease. This principle is critical in fields like orthopedics, rehabilitation, and sports medicine because it explains how physical activity can promote bone health and adaptation.

While age-related factors, external force impacts, and vitamin D levels can influence bone health, they do not directly drive the adaptation process described by Wolff's law. The core principle of this law hinges on the relationship between mechanical stress and bone remodeling.