Growth Plate Closure and Its Impact on Height

Closure of the growth plates?

In reference to your previous question #117885, when you mentioned "sixteen years old," are you referring to bone age? If so, I haven't been tested for that, but I have continued to grow taller since I recently turned sixteen.

Niming, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/01/16

Dr. Shi Guozheng reply Orthopedics

In males, the growth plates typically begin to close after the age of fifteen, and by around sixteen, they are usually completely closed.
An X-ray of the growth plates is simply used to confirm whether they have closed.

Reply Date: 2017/01/16

More Info

The closure of growth plates, also known as epiphyseal plates, is a critical factor in determining an individual's final height. Growth plates are areas of developing cartilage tissue located near the ends of long bones. During childhood and adolescence, these plates are responsible for the lengthening of bones, which in turn contributes to overall height.
As a person matures, hormonal changes, particularly the increase in sex hormones such as estrogen and testosterone during puberty, lead to the gradual closure of these growth plates. Once the growth plates are fully closed, which typically occurs in late adolescence to early adulthood (around ages 16-18 for females and 18-21 for males), further height increase is generally not possible. This is because the cartilage in the growth plates is replaced by bone, effectively halting any further elongation of the bones.

In your case, if your growth plates have been confirmed to be closed through X-ray imaging, it is unlikely that you will experience significant height increase. While some individuals may continue to grow slightly after the age of 16, this is usually minimal and not guaranteed. The growth plates' closure is a definitive sign that the potential for further height increase has diminished.

Regarding your question about bone age, it is indeed a critical factor in assessing growth potential. Bone age is determined through X-ray examination and reflects the maturity of the skeletal system. If your bone age is significantly ahead of your chronological age, it may indicate that your growth plates are closer to closure than expected, further suggesting limited potential for height increase.

While some people explore various methods to increase height, such as hanging exercises or nutritional supplements, the scientific evidence supporting these methods is limited. Hanging from a bar, for instance, may temporarily decompress the spine, but it does not lead to permanent height increase. Similarly, while adequate nutrition, including protein intake, is essential for overall health and development, it cannot reverse the closure of growth plates.

For those who are particularly concerned about their height, there are surgical options available, such as limb lengthening procedures. However, these surgeries are complex, carry significant risks, and require a lengthy recovery process. They are not commonly performed and are typically reserved for individuals with specific medical conditions or those who are very dissatisfied with their height.

In summary, if your growth plates are closed, it is unlikely that you will grow significantly taller. While there may be slight variations in height due to factors like posture or spinal decompression, these are not substantial. If you have concerns about your height or growth potential, it may be beneficial to consult with a healthcare professional who specializes in endocrinology or orthopedics for personalized advice and guidance.

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