What are the signs of stopping growth at age 17?
Disease description:
My child is 17 years old this year, and I've noticed that their height hasn't seemed to increase recently, which has made me a bit concerned. I'd like to ask: what are the signs that a 17-year-old has stopped growing taller?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Zhou Xiaofeng
Signs of halted height growth at age 17 may include the closure of growth plates (epiphyseal lines), or no significant height increase—only minimal changes—over a period of one to two years. Additionally, if you notice your muscles becoming increasingly firm and your body developing more defined curves, these may also indicate that height growth has stopped. Once such signs appear, it is recommended to visit a hospital for an examination of the growth plates to determine whether they have closed. Even if height growth has ceased, it remains essential to consume adequate nutrients to support normal bodily functions. In daily diet, include calcium-rich foods such as milk, soy products, small fish, and shrimp. Regular participation in outdoor physical activities, especially jumping exercises like basketball and jump rope, is also beneficial.
