What to do if you're not growing taller at age 17
Disease description:
My child is already 17 years old this year, but is still relatively short and shows no signs of growing taller. What should I do if my 17-year-old isn't growing taller?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Ma Yan
At age 17, if one is not growing taller, it's recommended to visit a regular hospital for assessments of bone age and growth hormone levels, to determine whether the epiphyseal plates have closed. If the epiphyseal plates are already closed, further height growth is no longer possible. If the growth plates remain open, it's advisable to improve dietary nutrition, engage in appropriate physical exercise, and follow medical advice regarding supplementation with growth hormones or calcium to promote growth.
