AskDocDoc
/
/
/
How to determine and know if I will grow height
FREE!Ask Doctors — 24/7
Connect with Doctors 24/7. Ask anything, get expert help today.
500 doctors ONLINE
#1 Medical Platform
Ask question for free
00H : 48M : 32S
background image
Click Here
background image
Bone and Orthopedic Conditions
Question #19560
61 days ago
196

How to determine and know if I will grow height - #19560

Sachin

Sir I am 17 yrs 5 months old it may not sound serious to you but I am very concerned about height. I am from Nepal I am 5 ,5. And my father was 5’5 and mother is 5’0. I accepted my height but sometimes I used to think but I just sat yesterday and found some evidences that I may grow I don’t wanna have any useless hope but I found out my wingspan was 4 inches and a bit more longer than my vertical height and my sitting height is like 33 inches. I have grow any noticeably in last 1.5 yrs maybe a cm but not noticeably but my shoes size changed from 40to 42 . My dream height was 5’0 but I must be realistic so now I want to be in range of 5,7 to 5,9 now I dream height is 5,8 i have moderate amount of body hair about facial hair it’s tricky it not thick but it’s noticeable i clean my sideburns every 6 days and I have been in good diet or sleep or exercise for last 2 yrs just mild 0to 2 hrs a week so I need some guidance and prediction of my probable height before I take some test like bone age and risser test.

Age: 17
300 INR (~3.53 USD)
Question is closed
FREE! Ask a Doctor — 24/7,
100% Anonymously
Get expert answers anytime, completely confidential.
No sign-up needed.
CTA image asteriksCTA image

Doctors' responses

Dr. Arsha K Isac
I am a general dentist with 3+ years of working in real-world setups, and lemme say—every single patient teaches me something diff. It’s not just teeth honestly, it’s people… and how they feel walking into the chair. I try really hard to not make it just a “procedure thing.” I explain stuff in plain words—no confusing dental jargon, just straight talk—coz I feel like when ppl *get* what's going on, they feel safer n that makes all the difference. Worked with all ages—like, little kids who need that gentle nudge about brushing, to older folks who come in with long histories and sometimes just need someone to really sit n listen. It’s weirdly rewarding to see someone walk out lighter, not just 'coz their toothache's gone but coz they felt seen during the whole thing. A lot of ppl come in scared or just unsure, and I honestly take that seriously. I keep the vibe calm. Try to read their mood, don’t rush. I always tell myself—every smile’s got a story, even the broken ones. My thing is: comfort first, then precision. I want the outcome to last, not just look good for a week. Not tryna claim perfection or magic solutions—just consistent, clear, hands-on care where patients feel heard. I think dentistry should *fit* the person, not push them into a box. That's kinda been my philosophy from day one. And yeah, maybe sometimes I overexplain or spend a bit too long checking alignment again but hey, if it means someone eats pain-free or finally smiles wide in pics again? Worth it. Every time.
61 days ago
5

Hello,

At 17½ yrs, most boys have little height growth left (usually 0–3 cm more; rarely 4–6 cm if very late puberty).

Your parents’ heights predict a range of about 5’4”–5’7” (162–170 cm). Being 5’5” is within your expected range. Reaching 5’8”+ is unlikely, but small growth may still be possible.

Longer wingspan and bigger shoe size do not guarantee more height.

To know for sure, do a Bone Age X-ray (left hand/wrist). If plates are open → some growth left; if closed → growth done.

Avoid scams: supplements, stretching, height medicines don’t increase height.

Focus on sleep, nutrition, exercise, posture, and confidence.

I trust this helps Thank you

1030 answered questions
52% best answers
Accepted response

0 replies
Dr. Shayeque Reza
I completed my medical degree in 2023, but honestly, my journey in healthcare started way before that. Since 2018, I’ve been actively involved in clinical practice—getting hands-on exposure across multiple departments like ENT, pediatrics, dermatology, ophthalmology, medicine, and emergency care. One of the most intense and defining phases of my training was working at a District Government Hospital for a full year during the COVID pandemic. It was chaotic, unpredictable, and exhausting—but it also grounded me in real-world medicine like no textbook ever could. Over time, I’ve worked in both OPD and IPD setups, handling everything from mild viral fevers to more stubborn, long-term conditions. These day-to-day experiences really built my base and taught me how to stay calm when things get hectic—and how to adjust fast when plans don’t go as expected. What I’ve learned most is that care isn't only about writing the right medicine. It’s about being fully there, listening properly, and making sure the person feels seen—not just treated. Alongside clinical work, I’ve also been exposed to preventive health, health education, and community outreach. These areas really matter to me because I believe real impact begins outside the hospital, with awareness and early intervention. My approach is always centered around clarity, empathy, and clinical logic—I like to make sure every patient knows exactly what’s going on and why we’re doing what we’re doing. I’ve always felt a pull towards general medicine and internal care, and honestly, I’m still learning every single day—each patient brings a new lesson. Medicine never really sits still, it keeps shifting, and I try to shift with it. Not just in terms of what I know, but also in how I listen and respond. For me, it’s always been about giving real care. Genuine, respectful, and the kind that actually helps a person heal—inside and out.
60 days ago
5

You will not shrink

You may gain 1–3 cm

5’6"–5’7" is very realistic

5’8" is possible but not guaranteed

Your body proportions suggest late maturation

Bone age test will give you clarity, not false hope

1504 answered questions
58% best answers
Accepted response

0 replies
Dr. Prasannajeet Singh Shekhawat
I am a 2023 batch passout and working as a general physician right now, based in Hanumangarh, Rajasthan. Still kinda new in the bigger picture maybe, but honestly—every single day in this line teaches you more than textbooks ever could. I’ve had the chance to work under some pretty respected doctors during and after my graduation, not just for the clinical part but also to see how they handle people, real people, in pain, in panic, and sometimes just confused about their own health. General medicine covers a lot, right? Like from the smallest complaints to those random, vague symptoms that no one really understands at first—those are kinda my zone now. I don’t really rush to label things, I try to spend time actually listening. Feels weird to say it but ya, I do take that part seriously. Some patients just need someone to hear the whole story instead of jumping to prescription pads after 30 seconds. Right now, my practice includes everything from managing common infections, blood pressure issues, sugar problems to more layered cases where symptoms overlap and you gotta just... piece things together. It's not glamorous all the time, but it's real. I’ve handled a bunch of seasonal disease waves too, like dengue surges and viral fevers that hit rural belts hard—Hanumangarh doesn’t get much spotlight but there’s plenty happening out here. Also, I do rely on basics—thorough history, solid clinical exam and yeah when needed, investigations. But not over-prescribing things just cz they’re there. One thing I picked up from the senior consultants I worked with—they used to say “don’t chase labs, chase the patient’s story”... stuck with me till now. Anyway, still learning every single day tbh. But I like that. Keeps me grounded and kind of obsessed with trying to get better.
60 days ago
5

Hello Sachin Thanks for sharing all these details—it’s totally normal to wonder about your final height at 17! Here’s a simple breakdown to help you understand your growth potential and what you can realistically expect: 1. Growth Potential at 17 - Most boys finish their main growth spurt by 16–18 years, but some continue to grow slowly until about 20. - If you haven’t grown much in the last 1.5 years, it suggests you’re nearing your final height, but a little more growth (maybe 1–2 cm) is still possible. - 2. Family Height Influence - With your father at 5’5” and mother at 5’0”, your current height of 5’5” is already at the upper end of your genetic range. - Wingspan being longer than height is common and doesn’t always mean you’ll grow taller, but it can sometimes suggest a bit more growth left. - 3. Shoe Size & Body Hair - Shoe size increase and body hair development are signs of puberty, but not direct indicators of future height. - If facial hair is still developing, you might have a little growth left, but it’s not guaranteed. - 4. What You Can Do - Keep up with good nutrition, sleep, and regular exercise—these support your maximum potential. - Avoid supplements or medicines claiming to increase height—they don’t work and can be harmful. - 5. Tests for Growth Prediction - Bone age X-ray and Risser test (for growth plate closure) can give a more accurate idea if you have growth left. If your growth plates are still open, you might gain a bit more height.

While genetics play a significant role in determining height, certain exercises can help improve posture and potentially maximize your growth potential during your growing years. Here are some exercises that may help: 1. Stretching Exercises - Cobra Stretch: Lie on your stomach, place your hands under your shoulders, and push up, arching your back. Hold for 15-30 seconds. - Hanging: Find a sturdy bar and hang from it for 20-30 seconds. This can help stretch your spine. - 2. Strengthening Exercises - Pilates or Yoga: These practices focus on flexibility and core strength, which can improve posture and alignment. - Planks: Strengthening your core can help support your spine and improve posture. - 3. Aerobic Activities - Swimming: This full-body workout stretches and strengthens your muscles without putting stress on your joints. - Cycling: Riding a bike can help improve leg strength and posture. - 4. Sports - Basketball or Volleyball: These sports involve jumping and stretching, which can help improve your overall fitness and posture.

Thank you

651 answered questions
38% best answers
Accepted response

0 replies
Dr. Bharat Joshi
I’m a periodontist and academician with a strong clinical and teaching background. Over the last 4 years and 8 months, I’ve been actively involved in dental education, guiding students at multiple levels including dental hygienist, BDS, and MDS programs. Currently, I serve as a Reader at MMCDSR in Ambala, Haryana—a role that allows me to merge my academic passion with hands-on experience. Clinically, I’ve been practicing dentistry for the past 12 years. From routine procedures like scaling and root planing to more advanced cases involving grafts, biopsies, and implant surgeries. Honestly, I still find joy in doing a simple RCT when it’s needed. It’s not just about the procedure but making sure the patient feels comfortable and safe. Academically, I have 26 research publications to my credit. I’m on the editorial boards of the Archives of Dental Research and Journal of Dental Research and Oral Health, and I’ve spent a lot of time reviewing manuscripts—from case reports to meta-analyses and even book reviews. I was honored to receive the “Best Editor” award by Innovative Publications, and Athena Publications recognized me as an “excellent reviewer,” which honestly came as a bit of a surprise! In 2025, I had the opportunity to present a guest lecture in Italy on traumatic oral lesions. Sharing my work and learning from peers globally has been incredibly fulfilling. Outside academics and clinics, I’ve also worked in the pharmaceutical sector as a Drug Safety Associate for about 3 years, focusing on pharmacovigilance. That role really sharpened my attention to detail and deepened my understanding of drug interactions and adverse effects. My goal is to keep learning, and give every patient and student my absolute best.
61 days ago
5

Hello dear See best is that di some excercise like tadasana and surya namaskar. They will definitely bring improvement Genetic factors is not in support but environmental factors can modify height. So best is do streching exercises There can be chances of improvement Regards

1852 answered questions
63% best answers

0 replies

Determining whether you’ll grow taller involves several factors, including genetics, nutrition, and general health. Your height potential is largely dictated by your parents’ heights, but other factors can influence your final height. You’re close to 18, and while many males stop growing around this age, others may continue to grow slightly into their early 20s. Your wingspan sometimes being longer than your height could suggest you still have growth potential, but it’s not a definitive indicator.

To better understand your growth potential, consider bone age tests or the Risser test, which can help determine if your growth plates are still open (meaning you might still grow). However, these tests should be guided by a healthcare professional. Your shoe size increase might indicate recent growth, but again, it’s not a sure sign of height potential. Focus on maintaining a balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D, which contribute to bone health. Regular physical activity, especially weight-bearing exercises, can also support bone strength and general health.

Around your age, developments like the presence of more body or facial hair suggest physical maturation, but they don’t directly correlate with height growth. It’s crucial to have realistic expectations based on your genetic predispositions but exploring your concerns with a healthcare provider can give more personalized insights. Remember, every individual grows at their own pace, and being healthy is more important than any specific number on the tape measure.

16255 answered questions
87% best answers

0 replies
FREE! Ask a Doctor — 24/7,
100% Anonymously

Get expert answers anytime, completely confidential. No sign-up needed.

About our doctors

Only qualified doctors who have confirmed the availability of medical education and other certificates of medical practice consult on our service. You can check the qualification confirmation in the doctor's profile.


Related questions