Can Adults Still Grow Taller? Height Potential After Puberty

Can adults still grow taller?

In the first year of junior high school, I grew from 153 cm to 162 cm.
When I was 13 years old in the second year of junior high, I had an X-ray of my growth plates and had already developed pubic hair and a few facial hairs.
During the second and third years of junior high, my facial hair started to grow significantly, but the doctor said I would probably only reach around 165 cm, give or take 2 cm.
At that time, I was measured at 163.5 cm, with a margin of error of 1 cm.
After graduating from junior high, it seems I grew about 0.9 cm more, and I am currently around 164.5 to 165.6 cm.
In high school, I started to grow a lot of facial hair.
I have had several X-rays of my growth plates since then; some doctors said there was still a line, while others said they were fused.
However, I haven't grown taller in almost 5 years.
Now at 20 years old, I would like to know if there are any other ways to increase my height.
My family has a history of short stature, and in the fifth grade, I took some poor-quality growth supplements.
My father is about 155 cm, my mother is also around 155 cm, my maternal grandmother is 148 cm, my maternal grandfather is approximately 165 cm, my maternal grandfather is 158 cm, and my maternal grandmother is about 150 cm.
(From a reader in Taoyuan)

Shaojun, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/02/12

Dr. Chen Yongxue reply Orthopedics

Hello, in adults, the growth plates of the iliac bones have already closed, so they should not be able to increase in height any further.

Reply Date: 2016/02/12

More Info

As an adult, the potential for further height growth is significantly limited, primarily due to the closure of growth plates in the long bones. Growth plates, or epiphyseal plates, are areas of developing cartilage tissue located at the ends of long bones. During puberty, these plates are responsible for the increase in height. Once an individual reaches adulthood, typically around the late teens to early twenties, these plates close and are replaced by solid bone, marking the end of vertical growth.

In your case, at 20 years old, it is highly unlikely that you will experience any significant increase in height. The growth plates likely closed several years ago, especially since you mentioned that you have not grown taller in the last five years. The variations in height measurements you experienced could be attributed to factors such as posture, time of day, and measurement techniques rather than actual growth.

Genetics plays a crucial role in determining height. As you noted, your family members are generally shorter, which suggests that your height may be influenced by hereditary factors. While there are some anecdotal claims about growth supplements or exercises that can enhance height, scientific evidence supporting these claims is limited. Most methods that are marketed for height increase, such as growth hormone treatments or certain exercises, are typically ineffective for adults whose growth plates have already fused.

For individuals who are concerned about their height, it is essential to focus on overall health and well-being rather than solely on height. Engaging in regular physical activity, maintaining a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients (such as calcium, vitamin D, and protein), and ensuring good posture can contribute to a healthier appearance and potentially maximize your height potential during the growth years. However, once growth plates have closed, these factors will not lead to an increase in height.

If you are still feeling concerned about your height or if you have any underlying health issues, it would be advisable to consult with a healthcare professional. They can provide personalized advice and may conduct further assessments if necessary. In some cases, conditions affecting hormone levels or bone health can be addressed, but these are typically unrelated to height increase in adults.

In summary, while it is natural to wish for a taller stature, especially in a society that often emphasizes height, it is crucial to accept and embrace your genetic predisposition. Focus on leading a healthy lifestyle, and remember that height does not define your worth or capabilities.

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