Mouse tail vertebrae adapt to cyclic mechanical loading by increasing bone formation rate and decreasing bone resorption rate as shown by time-lapsed in vivo imaging of dynamic bone morphometry

► Load adaptation in bone is monitored over time with in vivo micro-CT. ► Temporal changes in bone microstructure, strength and dynamic rates are examined. ► Cyclic loading causes increase in bone formation rate and decrease in bone resorption rate. ► Surface of formation and resorption sites are modulated more than thickness of these sites. ► Bone microstructure and strength are improved by cyclic loading.