Height Growth in Teenagers: What to Expect at 17 - Pediatrics

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At 17 years old, many teenagers are concerned about their height and whether they can still grow taller. Based on your current height of around 162 cm and your growth pattern, it’s understandable to have questions about your potential for reaching your desired height of 170 cm or even 175 cm.
Firstly, it’s important to recognize that height growth is influenced by several factors, including genetics, nutrition, physical activity, and hormonal changes. Since your father is 180 cm and your mother is 150 cm, you have a genetic predisposition to be taller, but this is not guaranteed. The average height of your parents can provide a rough estimate of your potential height, but individual growth patterns can vary significantly.

From your description, it seems that you have experienced a steady but modest growth rate of about 3 cm per semester since middle school. This is typical for many teenagers, especially as they approach the end of their growth spurts. Most boys experience their most significant growth during puberty, which can last until around the age of 18 or even 20. However, the rate of growth often slows down as they get older, and by 17, many boys are nearing the end of their growth phase.

Regarding your concerns about the growth plates, these are areas of developing cartilage tissue near the ends of long bones. Once these growth plates close, which typically occurs after puberty, further height increase is unlikely. While you mentioned that your mother has not taken you to see a doctor to check your growth plates, it might be beneficial to do so. A simple X-ray can determine whether your growth plates are still open or have closed, providing you with a clearer picture of your growth potential.

As for the recent development of your Adam's apple, this is a normal sign of puberty and indicates that your body is producing more testosterone, which is responsible for many male secondary sexual characteristics. The presence of an Adam's apple does not necessarily correlate with your height but is part of the overall hormonal changes occurring during this period.

In terms of lifestyle factors, you mentioned that you have had a history of poor dietary habits, such as excessive consumption of sugary drinks and being picky with food. Nutrition plays a crucial role in growth and development. A balanced diet rich in vitamins, minerals, and proteins is essential for optimal growth. Ensuring you consume adequate amounts of calcium, vitamin D, and protein can support bone health and growth. Regular physical activity, especially weight-bearing exercises like basketball, can also promote bone density and overall health.

While it is difficult to predict exactly how much taller you will grow, it is still possible to reach your goal of 170 cm or even 175 cm, depending on the factors mentioned above. If your growth plates are still open, you may have a few more centimeters left in your growth potential. However, if they are closed, it is unlikely that you will grow significantly taller.

In conclusion, while there is still a chance for you to grow taller, it is essential to focus on maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and regular exercise. If you have concerns about your growth or development, consider consulting a healthcare professional who can provide personalized advice and possibly assess your growth plates. Remember, height is just one aspect of who you are, and focusing on your overall health and well-being is equally important.