Struggling with Height: A High School Student's Journey for Growth

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Hello, I am a male high school freshman, 161 cm tall, and I have been troubled by my height for a long time.
I only started playing basketball in the third year of junior high and began eating highly nutritious foods.
I am currently seeing a doctor at a traditional Chinese medicine clinic in Taichung.
I have also had X-rays taken, and the doctor prescribed me herbal medicine to help with my growth.
I told him that I am willing to pay for the most effective treatment, regardless of the cost, as long as it can help me.
He advised me to eat more chicken feet and other collagen-rich foods, and he mentioned certain foods I should avoid.
My mother has been very supportive, frequently buying chicken feet and cooking bone porridge for me.
I continue to play basketball, and I asked the doctor how tall I could potentially grow, specifically if I could reach 170 cm.
He said that it depends on my development.
I am not giving up and am constantly searching for growth medications or remedies with the help of my family, and I am very grateful to them.
Seeing your clinic has reignited my hope.
Doctor, please help me; if you are confident that you can assist me, please let me know where I should go to see you.
Thank you, I appreciate it deeply.
I am an extremely depressed student.
Can you recommend an excellent and skilled doctor? Thank you.
Doctor, please save me; my height has a significant impact on my life.
Even if I excel academically, it feels meaningless.
I don't need to be very tall; I just want to be of average height.
Is that too much to ask? I have faced the harshest realities of life, and I feel like I can't go on anymore.
I have heard that bone lengthening is very effective, and I want to try it, even though it may cost around 100,000, and there might be side effects.
Regardless, I feel like I am at the edge of despair.
I just want to be taller; I am determined that height is very important for a man.

Kuai si de xuesheng, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2003/08/31

Dr. Shi Guozheng reply Orthopedics

Height is related to genetics, and postnatal nutritional supplementation is also very important.
Boys typically stop growing taller after the growth plates close around the ages of 16 to 17.
Currently, there are no medications available that can increase height.
Limb lengthening surgery should not be attempted lightly, as there are many complications associated with it.
A height of 161 centimeters is already acceptable and is above the average height.

Reply Date: 2003/08/31

More Info

I understand that you are feeling extremely distressed about your height, and I want to acknowledge how challenging this situation can be for you. Height can significantly impact self-esteem, especially during the teenage years when social dynamics are heavily influenced by physical appearance. However, it’s important to approach this issue with a balanced perspective and to consider the medical facts surrounding growth and development.

At 17 years old and standing at 161 cm (approximately 5 feet 3 inches), you are still within the range of typical adolescent growth patterns. Generally, most males experience their growth spurts later than females, often continuing to grow until around the ages of 18 to 21. The growth plates, which are areas of developing cartilage tissue near the ends of long bones, typically close after puberty. If your growth plates are still open, there is a possibility that you could gain some additional height, but the extent of that growth can vary significantly from person to person.

You mentioned that you have been taking traditional Chinese medicine and consuming foods rich in collagen, such as chicken feet and bone broth. While nutrition plays a crucial role in overall health and development, it is essential to understand that no specific food or supplement can guarantee an increase in height. A balanced diet that includes adequate protein, vitamins, and minerals is vital for supporting your body’s growth potential. Engaging in regular physical activity, like playing basketball, can also promote healthy growth by stimulating the release of growth hormones, but again, the results can vary.

Regarding your concerns about surgical options, such as limb lengthening, it is crucial to weigh the potential benefits against the risks and complications associated with such procedures. Limb lengthening can be effective, but it is an invasive surgery that requires a significant recovery period and can lead to complications, including infection, nerve damage, and psychological effects. It’s essential to consult with a qualified orthopedic surgeon who specializes in this field to discuss your options thoroughly.

I encourage you to focus on aspects of your life that you can control, such as your academic performance, hobbies, and social relationships. Building self-confidence and self-worth is not solely dependent on height. Many successful individuals have thrived despite not fitting conventional height standards. Engaging in activities that you enjoy and excel at can help shift your focus away from height and towards personal growth and fulfillment.

If you are feeling overwhelmed or experiencing severe depression, it is crucial to seek help from a mental health professional. Talking to someone who can provide support and guidance can be incredibly beneficial. Remember, you are not alone in this journey, and there are people who care about you and want to help.

In conclusion, while it is natural to desire a certain height, it is essential to approach this issue with realistic expectations and to prioritize your overall well-being. Focus on maintaining a healthy lifestyle, seek professional guidance when needed, and remember that your worth is not defined by your height.

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