Can I Still Grow Taller in High School? Growth Plates and Height - Orthopedics

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The question of whether you can still grow taller during high school is a common concern among adolescents, especially those who feel they are shorter than their peers. Based on your situation, where you are currently in high school and have been informed by a pediatrician that your growth plates are nearing closure, it is important to understand the implications of this information.

Firstly, growth plates, or epiphyseal plates, are areas of developing cartilage tissue located at the ends of long bones. They are responsible for the lengthening of bones and, consequently, height increase during childhood and adolescence. In males, these growth plates typically close around the ages of 18 to 21, while in females, they usually close earlier, around ages 16 to 18. The closure of growth plates signifies the end of height growth. Since your doctor mentioned that your growth plates are "almost closed," it suggests that you are nearing the end of your growth phase.

Given that you are currently 166 cm tall and your doctor estimates that you may grow an additional 1 to 3 cm, it is unlikely that you will reach a height of 170 cm or more. While there are anecdotal reports of individuals experiencing late growth spurts, these are relatively rare and often depend on various factors, including genetics, nutrition, and overall health.

Regarding your exercise routine, such as squatting, it is important to note that while regular physical activity is beneficial for overall health and can promote good posture, it does not significantly influence the closure of growth plates. Engaging in exercises like squats can strengthen your muscles and improve your physical fitness, but they will not reopen or delay the closure of growth plates. Therefore, your current exercise regimen is unlikely to affect your height.

Additionally, you asked about the impact of mood on growth. Psychological factors, including stress and emotional well-being, can indeed influence growth and development. Chronic stress can lead to hormonal changes that may affect growth, particularly during critical growth periods. Ensuring that you maintain a positive outlook and manage stress effectively can contribute to your overall health and well-being, which is important during your growth phase.

In summary, while it is understandable to wish for additional height, the likelihood of significant growth at this stage is limited due to the nearing closure of your growth plates. Focus on maintaining a healthy lifestyle, which includes a balanced diet, regular exercise, and good sleep hygiene. These factors can help you achieve your full potential in terms of health and fitness, even if they do not lead to significant increases in height. Remember that height is just one aspect of who you are, and many other qualities contribute to your overall self-worth and success.