Can You Still Grow Taller After Puberty? Insights from Taiwan's Orthopedics

Q: Can You Still Grow Taller After Puberty? Insights from Taiwan's Orthopedics

Hello： Factors affecting height include not only growth hormone but also the skeletal system and other elements. <br>If you wish to increase your height, you can seek an evaluation from a physician. <br>If the growth plates have not yet fused, administering growth hormone may hel

I want to grow taller..?

Hello, Doctor: I am currently 163 cm tall, but I feel that I am not tall enough.
Are there any medical methods available in Taiwan that can help someone who has already gone through puberty to grow taller?

Jessie, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2003/08/06

Dr. Shi Qiming reply Orthopedics

Hello: Factors affecting height include not only growth hormone but also the skeletal system and other elements.
If you wish to increase your height, you can seek an evaluation from a physician.
If the growth plates have not yet fused, administering growth hormone may help increase height.
Please take the time to visit the orthopedic department for an examination.

Reply Date: 2003/08/06

More Info

The question of whether one can still grow taller after puberty is a common concern, especially among those who feel they have not reached their desired height. Generally, the growth plates in the long bones of the body, known as epiphyseal plates, close after puberty, which typically occurs between the ages of 16 and 18 for females and 18 to 21 for males. Once these plates close, further height increase is not possible through natural growth processes.

In Taiwan, as in many parts of the world, there are limited medical interventions available for height increase after puberty. The most common methods that have been discussed include surgical options, such as limb lengthening procedures. These surgeries involve breaking the bones and using devices to gradually pull them apart, allowing new bone to form in the gap. However, these procedures are complex, carry risks, and require significant recovery time. They are typically reserved for individuals with specific medical conditions or severe limb discrepancies rather than for cosmetic height increase.

In addition to surgical options, some individuals explore non-surgical methods, such as posture improvement, stretching exercises, and yoga. While these practices can enhance one's appearance and may help individuals appear taller, they do not actually increase bone length or height. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D, can support overall bone health, but it will not lead to additional height after the growth plates have closed.

It's also important to consider that height is largely determined by genetics. If both parents are of shorter stature, it is likely that their children will also be shorter. Embracing one's natural height and focusing on other aspects of self-improvement, such as confidence and personal development, can be more beneficial than fixating on height alone.

In summary, after puberty, the chances of growing taller are minimal due to the closure of growth plates. While surgical options exist, they are invasive and not commonly pursued for cosmetic reasons. Non-surgical methods can improve posture and overall appearance but will not increase height. It is advisable to consult with a healthcare professional or an orthopedic specialist for personalized advice and to discuss any concerns regarding height and growth.

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