do testosterone increase height - #23205
I am a bit confused and stressed about my growth situation and I've been doing some research, but it’s super overwhelming. I'm 19 and 5'6", which feels kinda short for my age. I just found out a friend who's 18 and only a little taller than me has been taking testosterone supplements for some health issues, and I’m wondering, do testosterone increase height? Like, is that a real thing? I always assumed most of the height growth happens during puberty, and since I’m done with that phase, I don't see how testosterone would change anything now. I've heard some guys at the gym say they’ve noticed changes, but is it really because of testosterone? I mean, I've been looking at all these gym and fitness forums and they all seem to say different things. Some docs say testosterone can affect bone density and growth plates, but like if mine are already closed, does that even matter? I honestly just want to know if there’s a chance that taking testosterone would help me get a few more inches, or am I just wasting my time thinking about this? Thanks for any clarity!
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Doctors' responses
In your situation, it’s understandable there might be a bit of confusion. Testosterone indeed plays a significant role during puberty, where it contributes to the increase in bone length and density, but the potential for height increase largely depends on whether the growth plates in your bones are still open. By age 19, most people’s growth plates, also known as epiphyseal plates, usually have closed, and once they’re closed, no further increase in height can naturally occur regardless of testosterone levels.
It’s true that testosterone can influence bone density and contribute to muscle growth, which might create an appearance of increased stature due to improved posture or muscle mass, but that’s not the same thing as an actual increase in bone length. For your friend, testosterone might be prescribed to manage certain hormonal deficiencies or health issues, but it’s unlikely to be related to influencing height if their growth plates are also closed. Taking testosterone supplements without medical supervision can have significant side effects, ranging from mood changes to cardiovascular issues, so it’s crucial to approach this cautiously.
If you’re really concerned about your height, it’s worth discussing it with a healthcare professional. They can provide a better understanding of your individual growth potential, or perform tests to determine whether your growth plates are still open, though at your age, this is less likely. They can also help ensure that your hormone levels are normal and address any underlying health issues you might have. Most importantly, remember that height doesn’t define you, and focusing on other aspects of health and fitness can be far more beneficial in the long run.
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