Can Traditional Chinese Medicine Help Increase Height in Adolescents?

Short stature

I am about to enter the first year of high school, but my height is only 146 cm.
Is this considered very short? I haven't grown at all during my three years in junior high school.
Is it still possible to grow taller if I take traditional Chinese medicine? Should I consider growth hormone injections to increase my height? That doesn't seem good, right? I'm really confused and often teased by my classmates.
I really want to grow a bit taller.

Xiao, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2008/08/13

Dr. Lin Qingzhong reply Traditional Chinese Medicine

Dear Internet user (female, 16 years old),
1.
You are about to enter the next grade, but your height is only 146 cm, which is considered quite short.
Moreover, you have not experienced any growth during your three years in junior high school.
Whether you will grow taller depends on the maturity of your secondary sexual characteristics and whether your growth plates have fused.
If your secondary sexual characteristics are well developed and your growth plates are fused, the chances of further height increase are reduced.
Each adolescent's growth and development period varies; generally, the peak growth period for males is around 12-13 years old, while for females, it is around 9-10 years old, continuing until about 16-17 years old.
2.
While taking traditional Chinese medicine for height increase may be slow, it is worth trying.
If you consider growth hormone therapy, that is also an option; you can visit a medical center for further evaluation.
3.
Remember that an individual's height is influenced by both genetic (inherited) and environmental factors.
The main environmental factors include nutrition, exercise, sleep, and illnesses.
To achieve optimal growth, it is essential to focus on a balanced diet.
This should include adequate nutrition from sources like milk and fish for protein, as well as vegetables rich in vitamins A, B, C, and minerals such as iron, calcium, and folic acid.
In clinical practice, the approach to "bone transformation" requires careful assessment and adjustment of medication for better treatment outcomes.
It is important to evaluate the patient's constitution and condition before prescribing medication to ensure safety.
Additionally, for adolescents to grow taller, it is crucial to maintain a balanced intake of protein from milk and fish, as well as vegetables and minerals.
Coupled with appropriate exercise, sunlight exposure, and sufficient sleep, this can lead to more effective growth.
Finally, I wish you all the best.
Dr.
Lin Ching-Chung, Assistant Professor, Director of the Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fengyuan Hospital

Reply Date: 2008/08/13

More Info

In addressing your question about whether Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) can help increase height in adolescents, it's essential to consider several factors that influence growth, including genetics, nutrition, physical activity, and hormonal changes.
Firstly, it is important to understand that height is largely determined by genetic factors inherited from your parents. If your parents are shorter, it may be more challenging for you to reach a significantly taller height. However, this does not mean that you cannot influence your growth potential through other means, especially during your adolescent years when growth plates are still open.

From a TCM perspective, the approach to height increase often involves a holistic view of the body. TCM practitioners believe that proper balance of the body's energies (Qi), blood, and organ functions can support growth. Commonly used herbs in TCM for promoting growth include those that nourish the kidneys and strengthen the spleen, as these organs are believed to play a crucial role in growth and development. Formulas such as "Six Flavor Rehmannia Decoction" (Liu Wei Di Huang Wan) and "Ginseng and Poria Powder" (Ren Shen Ping Wei San) are often recommended to enhance vitality and support growth.

In your case, since you mentioned that you are currently 146 cm and have not experienced any height increase during your middle school years, it is crucial to assess whether your growth plates are still open. This can be done through an X-ray examination of your hand and wrist, which can show whether the growth plates have fused. If they have already closed, the potential for further height increase is significantly limited.

Regarding the use of growth hormone injections, this is typically reserved for specific medical conditions diagnosed by a healthcare professional. While growth hormone therapy can be effective in certain cases, it is not without risks and should only be considered under the guidance of an endocrinologist.
In addition to TCM, there are lifestyle factors that you can control to optimize your growth potential. These include:
1. Nutrition: A balanced diet rich in proteins, vitamins, and minerals is essential. Foods high in calcium and vitamin D, such as dairy products, leafy greens, and fish, support bone health.

2. Physical Activity: Engaging in regular exercise, particularly activities that promote stretching and posture, such as swimming, basketball, and yoga, can be beneficial. These activities not only help in maintaining a healthy weight but also promote the release of growth hormones.

3. Sleep: Adequate sleep is crucial for growth, as growth hormone is primarily secreted during deep sleep. Aim for 8-10 hours of quality sleep each night.

4. Stress Management: High levels of stress can negatively impact growth. Techniques such as mindfulness, meditation, and relaxation exercises can help manage stress levels.

In conclusion, while TCM may offer supportive therapies to promote growth, it is essential to have realistic expectations based on your genetic background and current physiological status. Consulting with a healthcare professional, such as a TCM practitioner or an endocrinologist, can provide you with personalized advice and treatment options. Remember that growth is just one aspect of your overall health and well-being, and focusing on a healthy lifestyle will benefit you in many ways beyond just height.

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