Why are the feet and hands missing in an 18-year-old male?

Question

Hello doctor,

Basically, my current height is 5 feet 7 inches, and I am 18 years old, for which my doctor said I am only taller than 25 % of my age group. I have not hit my second main growth spurt I believe. I have been growing really slowly over the years, even when I was 14 years old, I was not growing much. I have reached puberty, a good amount of it, but for some reason, my feet have not grown much either, nor have my hands, and my face still looks young. Am I just a late bloomer when it comes to growing, but not puberty? I am waiting on growth plate and bone age results to come back to see if I am still able to grow. So, I wanted to know, in case I still have time to grow, who would qualify? I am also getting bloodwork done to see my HGH levels. I have a really strong appetite and difficulty concentrating.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Your current height will be based on a combination of your genes and environmental factors. If your parents are tall, you will also reach a good height eventually in most of the cases. A good diet rich in carbohydrates, proteins, vitamins, minerals and all micronutrients is required to help you attain your genetic potential for height. Let us know the reports of your blood investigations and X-ray. Start doing good stretching and cardio exercises. Do sports, pull-ups, and push-ups. Avoid excessive weights as weightlifting during teens tends to cause stunting. Regarding your face looking young for an 18-year-old, that is just a matter of time before your facial muscles get sculpted, bone gets remodeled and facial hair develops to give you a more masculine look appropriate for your age. Thank you and take care. Regards.