Can I Still Grow Taller at 16 with Closed Growth Plates?

Is it still possible to grow taller if I am currently shorter than average?

Hello doctor, I am currently 145 cm tall, weigh 45 kg, and I am 16 years old.
I would like to know if I can still grow taller.
My family members are all quite short, which suggests a genetic issue.
Additionally, I have experienced early maturation; I got my first period in the fifth grade and now have pubic and underarm hair.
I have had my growth plates checked, and they are already closed.
Due to academic pressures, my sleep and exercise have not been sufficient.
I would like to understand if I can still grow taller if I start maintaining a normal routine without using any medications or undergoing bone manipulation.

Niming, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/06/04

Dr. Chen Jieting reply Traditional Chinese Medicine

I must honestly tell you that due to genetic factors, the potential for further height increase is likely limited at this stage.
However, maintaining a regular schedule and ensuring adequate sleep is essential.
Additionally, it is advisable to minimize the intake of sweets and sugary beverages, as excessive sugar can inhibit growth hormone production.
If you have any further needs, feel free to come in for an evaluation.
I hope this information helps you.

Reply Date: 2021/06/04

More Info

At the age of 16, the potential for further growth in height largely depends on whether the growth plates in your bones have closed. The growth plates, also known as epiphyseal plates, are areas of developing cartilage tissue near the ends of long bones. Once these plates close, which typically occurs in late adolescence, further height increase is unlikely.

In your case, since you mentioned that your growth plates have already closed, it is highly improbable that you will experience any significant increase in height. This closure usually indicates that the bones have reached their maximum length, and while some individuals may experience slight changes in height due to posture or spinal alignment, substantial growth is not expected.

Genetics plays a crucial role in determining height. If your family members are generally shorter, this may influence your growth potential as well. Early maturation, which you described, can also affect growth patterns. Girls typically experience a growth spurt before their first menstrual period, and since you started menstruating in fifth grade, this could mean that your growth spurt occurred earlier than average, leading to a shorter overall growth period.

While you may not be able to increase your height significantly, there are several factors that can help you maximize your growth potential during your growing years, even if they are limited:
1. Nutrition: A balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals is essential for growth. Ensure you are consuming adequate amounts of calcium, vitamin D, protein, and other nutrients that support bone health. Foods like dairy products, leafy greens, lean meats, and fish are beneficial.

2. Sleep: Growth hormone is primarily secreted during sleep, particularly during deep sleep. Aim for 8-10 hours of quality sleep each night to support your body's natural growth processes.

3. Exercise: Regular physical activity, especially weight-bearing exercises, can promote bone health and overall well-being. Activities like swimming, cycling, and stretching exercises can also help improve posture, which may enhance your appearance of height.

4. Posture: Maintaining good posture can make a significant difference in how tall you appear. Strengthening your core muscles and being mindful of your posture can help you stand taller.

5. Avoiding Growth Inhibitors: Certain factors can inhibit growth, such as smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and the use of certain drugs. Avoiding these can help you maintain your health and potentially support your growth.

6. Stress Management: High levels of stress can negatively impact your overall health, including growth. Finding healthy ways to manage stress, such as through mindfulness, meditation, or engaging in hobbies, can be beneficial.

In conclusion, while the closure of your growth plates suggests that significant height increase is unlikely, focusing on a healthy lifestyle can help you maximize your potential and improve your overall well-being. If you have concerns about your growth or health, consulting with a healthcare professional or an endocrinologist may provide you with personalized advice and guidance.

Similar Q&A

Can I Still Grow Taller at 16? Understanding Growth Plates and Height

At 16 years old, you sometimes engage in masturbation and have a smoking habit. Currently, your height is 167 cm, while your brother's height is 178 cm. You are unsure if your growth plates have closed and if you still have a chance to grow taller. Are there any methods to h...

Dr. Li Wenhong reply Orthopedics
Hello: An X-ray of the knee joint can determine whether the growth plates have closed, but it cannot accurately predict how much taller you will grow. Your height is already 167 cm, so just let it happen naturally. Changhua Hospital, Orthopedics, Dr. Li Wen-Hong.

Can You Still Grow Taller After Growth Plate Closure at 21?

When I was 20 years old, I had an examination of my growth plates, and there was only a small amount left, about the size of a sesame seed. Now that I am 21, is there still a chance for me to grow taller? I've heard many people say that males may not completely close their g...

Dr. Shi Guozheng reply Orthopedics
After the age of 15-16, the growth plates in males will close. Once the growth plates are closed, it is not possible to grow taller, and medications or calcium supplementation will not have any effect.

Can I Still Grow Taller at 16? Tips for Height Increase

Hello doctor, I am 16 years old and in the second year of high school, with a height of 168.8 cm. I started my menstrual period in the first year of junior high school. Currently, I am a dance class student, and I hope to reach a height of 172 cm. Is it still possible for me to g...

Dr. Shi Guozheng reply Orthopedics
Typically, once a girl has gone through puberty, she will not grow taller because the growth plates have closed. The growth plates around the knees and near the hip joints usually close between the ages of 14 and 15, which can be observed through X-ray imaging. These areas are wh...

Can You Reopen Growth Plates for Height Increase After Closure?

Hello, Doctor. I heard that the growth plates in males typically close around the age of 16. I would like to know if there is any way to reopen closed growth plates or if it is possible for someone whose growth plates have closed to gain additional height. Given my age, my growth...

Dr. Shi Guozheng reply Orthopedics
Once the growth plates have closed, there is no way to reopen them for further height increase. The only option for increasing height after the growth phase is through limb lengthening surgery. Theoretically, individuals will not grow taller after reaching their growth age.