Can You Still Grow Taller After 26? Myths and Facts Explained

Height increase

I am 26 years old and my height is only 161 cm.
Some people say it might be due to genetics, but my cousins and male relatives are all over 180 cm! I wonder if my practice of taekwondo since childhood has affected my height.
I've heard that stretching too early or training muscles too soon can stunt growth.
I still exercise regularly, running and doing some jumping activities, but it seems like I haven't grown at all! Is it true that after a certain growth period, the chances of growing taller are zero?

KnT, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2004/09/09

Dr. Lin Gengxiao reply Orthopedics

1.
At the age of twenty-six, it is theoretically impossible to grow taller, as the growth plates in the bones typically close around the ages of sixteen or seventeen.
Once the growth plates are closed, there will be no further increase in length.

2.
Once the growth plates are closed, administering growth hormone can only increase the thickness and width of the bones, but it cannot change height.

3.
Limb lengthening surgery is usually performed only on individuals with limb discrepancies.
Due to the risks and potential complications associated with the surgery, it is generally not recommended for healthy individuals.

4.
There is no definitive evidence that exercise affects height, and there are no actual cases to support the claims of devices and medications marketed to increase height.

Reply Date: 2004/09/09

More Info

At the age of 26, it is generally accepted that most individuals have reached their maximum height. This is primarily due to the closure of the growth plates in the long bones, which typically occurs after puberty. For males, growth plates usually close around the ages of 18 to 25, while for females, this process tends to complete a bit earlier, around ages 16 to 23. Once these growth plates are closed, further height increase is highly unlikely, and any perceived height changes after this age are usually due to factors such as posture, spinal compression, or measurement errors.

In your case, you mentioned that your height is 161 cm, while many of your relatives are significantly taller. Height is indeed influenced by genetics, and it is not uncommon for siblings or cousins to have varying heights even within the same family. While it can be frustrating to feel shorter than your peers or relatives, it’s important to remember that genetics play a crucial role in determining height, and there is often little that can be done to change this.

You also raised concerns about your history of practicing Taekwondo and whether it could have impacted your growth. The notion that early involvement in sports or stretching exercises could stunt growth is a myth. Engaging in physical activities, including martial arts, is beneficial for overall health, strength, and flexibility. In fact, regular exercise can promote healthy bone development during the growth years. However, once the growth plates have closed, these activities will not contribute to further height increase.

Regarding your current physical activity, such as running and jumping, these exercises are excellent for maintaining fitness and overall health, but they will not affect your height at this stage. It’s also worth noting that height can fluctuate slightly throughout the day due to spinal compression from gravity, but these changes are temporary and do not indicate actual growth.

If you are feeling self-conscious about your height, it may be helpful to focus on aspects of your health and fitness that you can control. Building strength, improving cardiovascular fitness, and enhancing flexibility can contribute to a more confident self-image. Additionally, wearing clothing that fits well and enhances your appearance can also help you feel better about yourself.

In conclusion, while it is understandable to wish for more height, especially when surrounded by taller relatives, the reality is that after the age of 26, the likelihood of growing taller is virtually zero due to the closure of growth plates. Instead of focusing on height, consider embracing your unique attributes and investing in your overall health and well-being. If you have concerns about your growth or health, consulting with a healthcare professional, such as an endocrinologist or a general practitioner, can provide you with personalized advice and reassurance.

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