Height Growth and Spinal Issues in Young Adults

Height. Spine?

Doctor, I would like to ask you about my situation.
I am 18 years old and 162 cm tall.
I have had my bone age assessed at the hospital, and the doctor simply said that since I am 18, I am done growing.
I feel that this explanation is a bit too simplistic.
Does this mean that my growth plates have fused? If they have fused, is there no chance for me to grow taller? I would like to reach 170 cm, especially since my father is 175 cm and my mother is 165 cm; I shouldn't only be 162 cm tall.
If I supplement with calcium and play basketball, is there a chance I could grow taller? Additionally, I have a slight scoliosis in my spine; is there any way to correct it?

Niming, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/03/12

Dr. Chen Yongxue reply Orthopedics

Height is generally influenced by several factors, aside from endocrine disorders, including 1.
genetics, 2.
nutrition, 3.
sleep, and 4.
physical activity.
It cannot be determined solely by the height of the parents.
For example, Yao Ming is taller than both of his parents.
Conversely, insufficient physical activity, irregular sleep patterns, and unbalanced nutrition can lead to shorter stature than expected.
Height growth typically ceases after age 18 for males and age 17 for females.
In fact, height is not the most important aspect of life.
Regular exercise and a consistent routine are beneficial for the body.
A slight spinal curvature, or scoliosis, is generally not a concern if it is within 40 degrees and does not require correction.
Thank you.

Reply Date: 2018/03/12

More Info

At 18 years old, your height of 162 cm is indeed a concern, especially considering your parents' heights of 175 cm and 165 cm. It's understandable to feel frustrated about not reaching a height closer to what you might expect based on your genetic background.
When it comes to height growth, several factors come into play, including genetics, nutrition, physical activity, and hormonal levels. Generally, the growth plates in the long bones close after puberty, which typically occurs around 16-18 years for females and slightly later for males. Once these growth plates are closed, further height increase is unlikely. The term "healed" or "closed" in this context refers to the growth plates fusing, which means that the bones can no longer grow in length.
Your doctor’s comment about being "18 years old" likely indicates that you have reached the end of your growth potential, as most individuals will have completed their height growth by this age. However, there are some nuances to consider. While the long bones may have stopped growing, some individuals may experience slight increases in height due to spinal decompression or improved posture. Engaging in activities that promote good posture, such as swimming or yoga, can help maximize your height potential by ensuring that your spine is aligned properly.

Regarding your question about calcium supplementation and playing basketball, these activities can contribute positively to your overall health and bone density, but they are unlikely to significantly increase your height at this stage. Calcium is essential for bone health, and engaging in weight-bearing exercises can help maintain bone density, which is crucial as you age. However, once the growth plates are closed, no amount of calcium or exercise will lead to further height increase.

As for your mild scoliosis (spinal curvature), it’s important to address this condition, as it can impact your posture and overall health. Treatment options for scoliosis vary based on the severity of the curvature. Mild cases may only require monitoring and exercises to strengthen the back muscles and improve posture. In more severe cases, a brace or surgical intervention may be necessary. Consulting with an orthopedic specialist who can assess the degree of your scoliosis and recommend appropriate treatment is advisable.

In summary, while you may not be able to increase your height significantly at this point, focusing on maintaining a healthy lifestyle through balanced nutrition, regular exercise, and good posture can help you feel your best. If you have concerns about your height or spinal issues, seeking a second opinion from a specialist may provide you with more tailored advice and treatment options.

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