Can Acupuncture and Cupping Help Increase Height After Growth Plates Close?

How can I increase my height?

I am a 21-year-old male, 160 cm tall and weighing 56 kg.
When I was 18, I took growth supplements from both Chinese and Western medicine, but they were ineffective.
I have only grown 2 cm since I was 16.
When I was 20, I had an X-ray of my hand, and it showed that my growth plates had already closed.
Does this mean I have no chance of growing taller? Are acupuncture and gua sha effective? Does your hospital have a clinic for height increase?

peter, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2010/07/28

Dr. Lin Qingzhong reply Traditional Chinese Medicine

Dear Peter,
You are a 21-year-old male, standing at 160 cm and weighing 56 kg.
You mentioned that you took growth supplements, both traditional Chinese and Western, at the age of 18, but did not experience any further height increase.
From the age of 16 until now, you have only grown 2 cm.
At 20 years old, you had an X-ray of your hand which showed that your growth plates have already closed.
Based on your current description, it may be very challenging for you to grow taller, as height increase involves many factors, such as genetic factors from your parents' heights, as well as personal nutrition absorption, exercise, sleep, stress, and sexual maturity.
Sexual maturity can have an antagonistic effect on growth hormone.
Since your growth plates have closed and you have not grown taller in the past three years, the chances of increasing your height are very slim, but you can try to manage the aforementioned factors.
2.
Acupuncture and gua sha have also been used by some individuals for height increase, but there is no concrete statistical evidence to demonstrate their effectiveness based on personal knowledge.
3.
In our Traditional Chinese Medicine department, I often encounter patients seeking treatment for height increase.
In my clinical practice, I prescribe based on differential diagnosis, taking into account the condition of the internal organs, dietary adjustments, and the previously mentioned factors.
Many patients have experienced positive treatment outcomes.
Wishing you all the best.
Sincerely,
Dr.
Lin Ching-Chung
Assistant Professor, Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine
Fengyuan Hospital

Reply Date: 2010/07/28

More Info

At 21 years old, you are indeed at an age where the growth plates, or epiphyseal plates, have likely closed, which typically occurs in late adolescence. Once these plates close, the potential for further height increase is significantly diminished, as the bones can no longer grow in length. This is a natural part of human development, and for most individuals, height is largely determined by genetics, nutrition during the growing years, and overall health.

Regarding your specific questions about acupuncture and cupping, there is limited scientific evidence to support the idea that these alternative therapies can increase height after the growth plates have closed. Acupuncture, which involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body, is often used for pain relief and various health issues, but its effectiveness in promoting growth in height after skeletal maturity is not well-supported by clinical research. Similarly, cupping, which involves creating suction on the skin to promote blood flow and healing, does not have a proven effect on height increase.

While some anecdotal reports suggest that acupuncture may help with overall well-being and potentially improve posture, which could make you appear taller, it is unlikely to result in any actual increase in height. The same applies to cupping; while it may provide temporary relief from muscle tension or soreness, it does not influence bone growth.

As for your previous attempts with growth supplements, it is important to note that many of these products lack rigorous scientific backing and may not be effective. The best approach to managing your height concerns is to focus on aspects of health that you can control, such as maintaining a balanced diet, engaging in regular physical activity, and ensuring adequate sleep. These factors can contribute to overall well-being and may help you feel more confident in your body.

If you are still interested in exploring acupuncture or cupping for other health benefits, it would be advisable to consult with a licensed practitioner who can provide guidance based on your individual health needs. Additionally, if you are looking for specialized care regarding growth or height concerns, it may be beneficial to consult an endocrinologist or a healthcare provider who specializes in growth disorders. They can offer more personalized advice and discuss any potential underlying health issues that could be addressed.

In summary, while acupuncture and cupping may have their benefits for various health concerns, they are unlikely to increase height after the growth plates have closed. It is essential to focus on overall health and well-being rather than solely on height, as self-acceptance and confidence play significant roles in how we perceive ourselves and interact with the world.

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