Can I Still Grow Taller at 17? Growth Plates and Height Potential - Orthopedics

More Info

---

At 17 years old, the potential for further height growth largely depends on the status of your growth plates, which are areas of developing cartilage tissue located at the ends of long bones. These growth plates are responsible for the lengthening of bones during childhood and adolescence. Once they close, which typically occurs after puberty, no further height increase is possible.

From your description, it seems you are currently 162.5 cm tall and have experienced a slight increase in height over the past six months. While it is possible for some individuals to continue growing into their late teens, the rate of growth tends to slow down significantly as one approaches the end of puberty. Most males will experience their peak growth spurts between the ages of 12 and 16, with growth tapering off thereafter. By age 17, many boys have already begun to see their growth plates close, which can limit further height increases.

You mentioned that you had an X-ray of your growth plates at age 16, and the doctor indicated that they were "close to closing." This suggests that you may have limited growth potential remaining. Generally, if growth plates are nearly closed, significant height increases are unlikely. However, if your growth plates are still open, there may be a small chance for further growth, but this is often minimal.

Regarding your question about whether playing basketball can help you grow taller, while regular physical activity is beneficial for overall health and can promote good posture, it does not directly influence height. The perception that sports like basketball can increase height may stem from the fact that these activities encourage a healthy lifestyle, which includes proper nutrition and sleep—both of which are essential for growth.

As for the claim that individuals can continue to grow taller during college, this is generally a misconception. Most males will have completed their growth by the time they reach 18 or 19 years old. There are rare exceptions where some individuals may experience slight growth into their early twenties, but this is not the norm.

In summary, while you may have a small chance of growing a few more centimeters, it is essential to manage your expectations. Factors such as genetics play a significant role in determining your final height. If your parents are shorter, it is likely that you may not reach the height of 165-170 cm. However, maintaining a healthy lifestyle with balanced nutrition, regular exercise, and adequate sleep is crucial for your overall well-being, regardless of your final height. If you have concerns about your growth or want a more definitive answer regarding your growth plates, consider consulting an orthopedic specialist who can provide further insights based on your specific situation.