Height Concerns in Teenage Girls: A Guide for Parents

Daughter's height

Hello, Doctor.
I would like to consult you regarding my daughter's height.
She just turned 15 in early July, and her menstruation started in the first year of junior high.
Over the three years in junior high, she grew from about 150 cm to around 158 cm, which feels like a rather small growth.
My daughter is a perfectionist, so she performs well academically, but she also puts a lot of pressure on herself.
In her second year of junior high, she experienced insomnia due to competitive pressure and had to see a doctor.
I wonder if this issue has affected her growth.
Many people, including some doctors, predicted she would grow quite tall when she was younger, but that hasn't happened.
Recently, after finally finishing her exams and being able to relax, she has been feeling depressed about her relatively shorter height compared to her peers, which is really concerning for me.

Are there any methods that could help her? Would growth hormone injections be appropriate? I have also read on many websites that children can continue to grow until they are 18 or even 20 years old; is that possible? She has asked me about limb lengthening surgery, and I noticed that you seem to have expertise in this area.
You previously mentioned that the success rate is quite high.
Can individuals with shorter stature undergo this procedure? She mentioned wanting to reach a height of 166 to 168 cm, which sounds like a lot, but if she grows about 3 cm a year over the three years of high school, is that a gradual possibility? Thank you for your response, and I apologize for bothering you.

Li Xiaojie, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/08/04

Dr. Shi Guozheng reply Orthopedics

The growth plates in girls typically close around the age of 15, after which they are unlikely to grow taller.
Your daughter is currently 15, so there may still be a slight chance for her to grow a bit more.
Height increase surgery is usually indicated for individuals with bone disorders that prevent them from growing taller or for the correction of limb length discrepancies.
It is not recommended for normal children to undergo height increase surgery due to the numerous complications associated with the procedure.

Reply Date: 2017/08/04

More Info

Dear Parent,
Thank you for reaching out with your concerns regarding your daughter's height and overall well-being. It's understandable that as a parent, you want the best for your child, especially when it comes to their physical and emotional health. Height can be a sensitive topic for many teenagers, particularly for girls who may feel pressure to conform to societal standards of beauty and success.

Firstly, it's important to recognize that growth patterns can vary significantly among individuals. While your daughter has grown from approximately 150 cm to 158 cm during her middle school years, this growth is still within the normal range for her age. The average growth spurt for girls typically occurs between ages 10 and 14, with most girls reaching their adult height by around 16 to 18 years of age. However, some may continue to grow slightly beyond this age, depending on various factors, including genetics and hormonal influences.

Regarding your daughter's concerns about her height, it's crucial to address the emotional aspect as well. The pressure to perform academically and socially can lead to stress and anxiety, which may, in turn, affect her overall health and growth. Encouraging her to engage in stress-relief activities, such as sports, hobbies, or relaxation techniques, can be beneficial. It’s also essential to foster an environment where she feels comfortable discussing her feelings and concerns without judgment.

As for the possibility of using growth hormones or surgical options like limb lengthening, these should be approached with caution. Growth hormone therapy is typically reserved for specific medical conditions diagnosed by a healthcare professional, such as growth hormone deficiency. It is not a common practice for individuals who are simply shorter than their peers. Limb lengthening surgery is a more invasive option that carries risks and requires a significant recovery period. It is generally recommended only for those with severe height-related issues or deformities.

In terms of her potential for growth, it is indeed possible for some individuals to continue growing into their late teens. Factors such as bone age, which can be assessed through X-rays, can provide insight into whether she has more growth potential. If her growth plates are still open, there may be a chance for her to gain additional height. However, it is essential to manage expectations realistically and focus on her overall health rather than just height.

Encouraging a balanced diet rich in nutrients, regular physical activity, and adequate sleep can support her growth and development. Activities like swimming, cycling, and yoga can promote good posture and overall well-being. Additionally, ensuring she has a supportive social network and access to mental health resources can help her navigate her feelings about her height and self-image.

In conclusion, while height can be a concern for many teenagers, it is essential to focus on your daughter's overall health and happiness. Encourage her to embrace her unique qualities and talents, as these are what truly define her. If her feelings of inadequacy persist, consider consulting with a mental health professional who can provide additional support.

Thank you for your thoughtful inquiry, and I wish you and your daughter all the best in navigating this journey together.

Warm regards.

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