Growth Plate Issues: Can You Still Grow Taller at 22?

Issues with growth plates?

Hello, Doctor.
I am 22 years old, 169 cm tall, and I just graduated from university.
A few days ago, I had an X-ray of my growth plates.
I thought I would be getting a full-body X-ray, but they only took images of my wrist.
I went to see an orthopedic specialist with my family, but I didn't ask my questions clearly.
Should I go to another orthopedic clinic for a full-body X-ray? Is it necessary, or is the wrist X-ray sufficient? (I have been going to the gym for strength training, and my trainer also thinks it's odd that only my wrist was examined.) I also plan to start doing pull-ups every day; will that be helpful? The doctor mentioned that my growth plates are 98% closed.
Do I still have a chance to grow taller? I had brain surgery for a hemorrhage last November.
For someone who has had brain surgery and has 98% closed growth plates, is it possible to take growth hormone? The doctor also mentioned that a friend of his, who just graduated from university, moved to the U.S.
and grew 10 cm taller after two years due to the change in living environment.
I feel like I might have some opportunities as well.
I know I have a lot of questions, but I would like to hear what multiple doctors might say.
Could you please share your thoughts? Thank you very much.

Weiwei, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/11/17

Dr. Shi Guozheng reply Orthopedics

Typically, the growth plates in male adults close by the age of 22, making it impossible for them to grow taller.
Currently, administering growth hormone will not change this.

Reply Date: 2019/11/17

More Info

At 22 years old, you are at a stage where the majority of growth plates have likely closed, which significantly limits the potential for further height increase. The growth plates, or epiphyseal plates, are areas of developing cartilage tissue near the ends of long bones. Once these plates close, which typically occurs in late adolescence to early adulthood, the bones can no longer grow in length.
From your description, it seems that your growth plates are 98% closed, indicating that there is very little room left for growth. The closure of growth plates is influenced by various factors, including genetics, nutrition, and hormonal levels, particularly growth hormone. It is important to note that while some individuals may experience slight increases in height due to changes in posture or spinal decompression (such as from stretching or hanging exercises), significant increases in height after the closure of growth plates are highly unlikely.

Regarding your question about the necessity of a full-body X-ray versus just a wrist X-ray, the wrist is often used as a standard site to assess skeletal maturity because it can provide a good indication of growth plate closure throughout the body. However, if you have specific concerns or if your doctor did not provide a comprehensive assessment of your growth potential, seeking a second opinion or additional imaging could be beneficial. A full-body X-ray might provide more information about the status of your growth plates in other areas, but it is not always necessary unless there are specific clinical indications.

As for your interest in hanging exercises (like pull-ups), while these activities can improve posture and strengthen your back and core muscles, they are unlikely to contribute to significant height increases at your age. However, they can be beneficial for overall fitness and may help you feel taller by improving your posture.

Regarding the possibility of using growth hormone therapy, this is a complex issue. Growth hormone therapy is typically reserved for individuals with specific medical conditions that result in growth hormone deficiency. Given your history of brain surgery, it is crucial to consult with an endocrinologist or a specialist in metabolic disorders to evaluate your individual case. They can assess whether you have any underlying hormonal deficiencies and whether growth hormone therapy would be appropriate for you.

Lastly, while it is true that some individuals may experience changes in height due to lifestyle factors, such as moving to a different environment or engaging in different physical activities, these changes are usually modest and not guaranteed. Height is primarily determined by genetics, and while nutrition and exercise play supportive roles during the growth years, they have limited effects once growth plates have closed.

In conclusion, while you may not have significant opportunities for further height increase at 22 years old, focusing on maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise, a balanced diet, and good posture, can help you maximize your potential and improve your overall well-being. If you have further concerns about your growth or health, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare professional who can provide personalized guidance based on your medical history and current health status.

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