Patient's question:
Expected to grow taller but unaware of my dad's height being 172cm and my mom's being 158cm. About the past treatment and its effects: none. Unconcerned about any kind of assistance: I am currently 154cm and 14 years old. Can I still grow taller? What should I do...Doctor's answer:
Growth potential is not determined by actual age but by skeletal age, also known as bone age. Bone age is an indicator of growth and development, much like tree rings—it determines your final height. If your age is greater than your bone age, it suggests you are experiencing delayed growth; if your age is less than your bone age, it may indicate precocious puberty. Therefore, to understand your growth and development, you should have a bone age X-ray taken at a regular hospital. The doctor will predict your growth potential based on the closure of the growth plates shown in the X-ray.Advice: To ensure your health and maximize your growth potential, you should pay attention to the following aspects:
1. Proper Nutrition: Physical growth and the shrinkage of organs require a large amount of nutrients, with proteins, carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals, and trace elements being particularly important. Increase your intake of animal-based foods while also eating some vegetables and fruits, and correct bad habits like picky eating and a lack of meat.
2. Physical Exercise: Engaging in regular physical exercise, especially activities that involve jumping, such as high jumping, bar exercises, skating, basketball, and volleyball, is beneficial for the growth and development of the spine and the lengthening of limbs, helping your body grow taller.