Growth Rates in Teenagers: Is My Height Increase Normal?

In the first year of high school, students are generally considered to be in their early adolescence. I would like to inquire about the growth rate during this period?

Hello, Doctor! I am a 15-year-old male, currently in my first year of high school.
I started taking two bottles of traditional Chinese medicine for adjustment in early October 2017.
My original height was 165.5 cm, and today, January 27, 2018, after nearly four months, I have grown to 167 cm! Is this growth rate normal? If I continue at this rate, I hope to reach 174 cm! Is that possible? Should I get my bone age assessed? If my bone age is younger than my actual age, then I can follow a normal routine (going to bed before 11 PM) without worrying too much about not growing tall, just growing more slowly, right? Most of my classmates are already 16 years old and average 173 cm! So I wonder if my younger age means I am growing more slowly, but I also have more growth potential? Thank you very much for your reply, Doctor! I appreciate your hard work!

Xiao Lin, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/01/27

Dr. Shi Guozheng reply Orthopedics

Whether a person will grow taller is related to the closure of the growth plates.
If the growth plates have not yet closed, it is possible for further height increase to occur.
Normal sleep patterns and proper nutrition can also contribute positively to height.
Additionally, genetics play a significant role; there is a close correlation between the height of children and the height of their parents.
Generally, children of taller parents tend to be taller themselves.

Reply Date: 2018/01/27

More Info

It's great that you're taking an interest in your growth and development during this important stage of your life. At 15 years old, you're at a critical point in your growth trajectory, and it's completely normal to have questions about your height and growth rates.

Based on the information you've provided, your height increase from 165.5 cm to 167 cm over approximately four months translates to a growth rate of about 1.5 cm per month. This rate of growth is quite typical for someone in their mid-teen years, especially considering that boys often experience growth spurts during puberty. Generally, boys can grow anywhere from 7 to 12 cm per year during their peak growth years, which typically occur between ages 12 and 16, but can extend into the late teens.

Regarding your aspiration to reach a height of 174 cm, it's important to note that predicting final adult height can be complex and depends on several factors, including genetics, nutrition, and overall health. Since you mentioned that many of your peers are already around 173 cm, it's understandable to feel a bit concerned about your height. However, it's essential to remember that everyone grows at their own pace, and some individuals may experience growth later than others.

You also mentioned the idea of measuring your bone age. This is a valuable tool in assessing growth potential. If your bone age is younger than your chronological age, it may indicate that you have more growth potential left. Conversely, if your bone age is close to your chronological age, it might suggest that you are nearing the end of your growth period. Consulting with a healthcare professional, such as an endocrinologist or a pediatrician, can provide you with more personalized insights based on a bone age assessment.

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is crucial during this time. Ensuring you get adequate sleep (aiming for a bedtime before 11 PM, as you mentioned), eating a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals, and engaging in regular physical activity can all positively influence your growth. Activities like basketball, which you mentioned, can be beneficial not just for height but also for overall health and fitness.

Lastly, it's essential to manage your expectations and avoid comparing yourself too harshly with your peers. Growth patterns vary widely among individuals, and many factors can influence how and when someone grows. If you continue to have concerns about your growth or if you notice any significant changes, don't hesitate to reach out to a healthcare professional for further evaluation and guidance.

In conclusion, your growth rate appears to be within a normal range for your age, and with proper care and attention to your health, you may still have the potential to reach your desired height. Remember, patience and self-acceptance are key during this transitional phase of life.

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