What should be done if a child is not growing tall enough

Dec 22, 2022 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

My son is already in middle school this year, but his height isn't increasing much. He eats quite a lot normally, yet I'm extremely anxious. What should I do?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Zhou Xiaofeng
If a child is not growing tall enough, the following measures are recommended: 1. Identify the cause: Take the child to the hospital for a comprehensive examination to determine the reasons for short stature, such as genetics, malnutrition, lack of exercise, or underlying diseases. 2. Nutritional supplementation: Ensure the child receives balanced nutrition, especially foods rich in protein, calcium, and vitamin D, which support growth and development. 3. Increase physical activity: Encourage the child to participate in outdoor exercises such as basketball and swimming to promote bone growth and height development. 4. Ensure adequate sleep: Make sure the child gets sufficient sleep each day, as sleep is the peak period for growth hormone secretion. 5. Psychological support: Provide the child with adequate emotional and psychological support to prevent feelings of inferiority related to height.