Which of the following represents the growth rate for the distal femur?

The growth rate of the distal femur is an important aspect of pediatric orthopedics and sports medicine, as understanding growth can aid in diagnosing and managing conditions in growing athletes. The average growth rate for the distal femur typically falls around 9 mm per year during periods of rapid growth, especially during childhood and early adolescence when skeletal development is most pronounced.

This growth rate reflects the changes that occur in the growth plate (physis) of the femur, which is crucial for longitudinal bone growth. The rate can vary based on factors such as age, sex, and overall health; however, 9 mm per year is a well-accepted benchmark for healthy, growing children. This knowledge is essential for clinicians assessing the growth and development of young athletes, especially when evaluating potential growth-related injuries or conditions.