Internal injuries and height?
Hello, doctor.
I have had an internal injury for about three years.
Can an internal injury affect height? I am 163 cm tall; will I still grow taller? Recently, I have been drinking fresh milk, about 400 milliliters a day, but I exercise very little because I work as a mechanic in the morning and study at night.
Will I still grow taller? Besides seeing a doctor, is there any way to heal from an internal injury? If I need to see a doctor, should I see a traditional Chinese medicine practitioner or a Western medicine doctor?
Wuben Sanchiyo, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2006/04/24
Dr. Xie Yonghui reply Internal Medicine
Hello Michiyo TakeMoto: According to your letter, the internal injury you mentioned does not specify a location, making it difficult to assess.
Generally speaking, internal injuries do not affect height.
Furthermore, at your age, a height of 163 cm is considered normal.
There is no need to worry about height issues.
For internal injuries, you should consult a Western medicine specialist in surgery or orthopedics, depending on the affected area.
Reply Date: 2006/04/24
More Info
Internal injuries, depending on their nature and severity, can have various effects on the body, but they typically do not directly impact height growth. Height is primarily determined by genetics, nutrition, and the health of the growth plates in the bones. Growth plates, or epiphyseal plates, are areas of developing cartilage tissue near the ends of long bones. They are responsible for the lengthening of bones during childhood and adolescence. Once these plates close, which usually occurs after puberty, further height increase is unlikely.
In your case, you mentioned having internal injuries for about three years. If these injuries have not affected your growth plates or caused significant hormonal imbalances, they are unlikely to hinder your height growth. At 163 cm, you are within a normal height range, and there is still a possibility for some growth, especially if you are still in your teenage years. However, the extent of this growth will depend on various factors, including your age, genetics, and overall health.
Regarding your diet, consuming fresh milk can be beneficial as it is a good source of calcium and vitamin D, both of which are essential for bone health. However, nutrition alone will not guarantee an increase in height. It is also crucial to engage in regular physical activity, as exercise can stimulate growth hormone production and improve overall health. Since you mentioned that you have a busy schedule with work and studying, finding time for even short bouts of physical activity can be beneficial.
As for your internal injuries, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. If the injuries are causing pain or discomfort, seeing a doctor is advisable. Depending on the nature of your injuries, you may need to see either a Western medicine practitioner, such as an orthopedic specialist, or a traditional Chinese medicine practitioner. Western medicine typically focuses on diagnosing and treating the physical aspects of injuries, while traditional Chinese medicine may offer alternative therapies such as acupuncture or herbal treatments.
In summary, while internal injuries can affect your overall health and well-being, they are unlikely to have a direct impact on your height growth, especially if they do not involve the growth plates. Maintaining a balanced diet, staying active, and seeking appropriate medical care for your injuries will help you achieve optimal health and potentially support any remaining growth. If you have concerns about your height or internal injuries, do not hesitate to reach out to a healthcare professional for personalized advice and treatment options.
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