Can We Gain Height After the Age of 22?

It is a common belief that after the age of 22, it is impossible to significantly gain height. This is primarily due to the closure of growth plates in the bones, which typically occur during late teens to early twenties.

Bone Growth Plate Closure

In males, growth plates (the areas of bone growth) typically close between the ages of 16 and 19. Females, on the other hand, generally complete the fusion of their growth plates by 16 years old, with no significant differences observed among various ancestral groups. For males, the process of complete fusion can begin as early as 14 years of age in both epiphyses and is generally completed by the age of 19.

Typical Stopping Ages for Height Growth

The vast majority of individuals stop growing taller by their late teens to early twenties. For females, height growth usually ceases around 16 to 18 years old. Males may continue to grow until about 18 to 22 years old. Exceptions to this are rare but possible.

Factors Affecting Perceived Height

Although it is unlikely to gain significant height after the age of 22, there are various factors that can influence perceived height or contribute to minor height increases:

Posture

Improving posture through exercises like yoga or Pilates can make a person appear taller. Good posture helps the body stand straight, which can add a few inches to someone's height.

Spinal Health

Maintaining good spinal health and flexibility can help maximize height potential. Disc compression can lead to a slight loss of height over time, so keeping the spine healthy may help maintain height.

Weight Loss

Losing excess weight can also make a person appear taller as it can alleviate the stress on the spine and improve posture.

Surgical Options

Limb-lengthening surgeries are available, but they are complex, risky, and typically only recommended for specific medical conditions. These procedures are not typically pursued for aesthetic reasons.

Is There Any Way to Increase Height After Age 22?

Attempting to increase height through supplements or specific workouts is not possible. Height is defined by your genetics. Therefore, claims that there are supplements or exercises that can increase height significantly are not reliable.

Can We Add Inches to Our Height at This Age?

Despite the limitations, it's possible to add a few inches to your height through lifestyle changes:

Strengthen Your Spinal Health

Sleep: Get at least 7 hours of sleep daily. Proper sleep helps the body repair and grow. Phone Use: Avoid scrolling on your mobile device 30 minutes before bed. This can help improve sleep quality. Diet: Cut out junk food, fried, and greasy foods. Stick to homemade, natural meals rich in protein and calcium. Include milk and curd in your diet. Stretching: Stretch for at least 30 minutes every day. If possible, incorporate running and walking into your daily routine.

Follow these recommendations consistently for three years, and you may notice a slight increase in your height.

While these changes can make a noticeable difference, it is essential to remember that the body's potential for height increase is primarily determined by genetics and completes during late adolescence to early adulthood.