Can a Chiropractor Make You Taller?

‘I wish I was a little bit taller’ – 6 ft. 9 to be exact, according to Skee-Lo in his 90s classic song ‘I Wish’! This type of height might only appeal if you want to play basketball, but many of us do have a desire to add a few extra inches to our stature.

Chiropractors are often asked whether they can make people taller, and while we don’t have a magical growth pill, there are steps we can take to allow our patients to reach their optimal height potential. So, can a chiropractor make you taller? Read on to find out more!

“So, can a chiropractor make you taller?”

What factors affect height?

The main factor affecting a person’s height is their genetic makeup, or DNA, which is said to be responsible for around 80% of an individual’s final height. However, other factors can influence height development if you’re still growing, including nutrition, sleep, hormones and medical conditions. 

The majority of people will reach their full height between the ages of 14 and 20, depending on their genetics and when puberty started.

Can correcting posture increase height?

As stated, your DNA and genetics have the biggest role to play when it comes to your final height. Unfortunately, you can’t alter these factors and some people may not end up as tall as they would have liked. However, your posture has an important role to play and good posture is crucial if you want to reach your full height potential. 

Good posture includes a spine that is properly aligned and supported by the spinal muscles and ligaments. By contrast, poor posture puts extra stress and compression on the spine, which can lead to a slight curve or ‘hunched over’ appearance. Correcting bad posture means that the spine will be in alignment once again, allowing you to stand tall and giving the appearance of extra height. Technically, the length of your spine stays the same, but don’t underestimate the visual effect that good posture has on height! 

It’s estimated that you can gain between 1/4 inch to 2 inches, simply by fixing any posture or spinal alignment issues. How do I fix my posture, you might ask? That’s where chiropractic adjustments come in! 

“Straightening or lengthening of the spine means you appear taller”

How does a chiropractic adjustment work?

A chiropractic adjustment (also known as spinal manipulation) is a highly skilled technique that restores the proper alignment of your spine. Correct alignment helps to relieve any pressure on your nerves or muscles, resulting in less pain, easier movement, more energy and improved overall function! 

Before your first chiropractic adjustment, your chiropractor will want to have an overview of your medical history, including any injuries, long term health issues and any conditions you may be living with. This is then used to put together a treatment plan that’s specific to you and your needs. When you come to have your adjustment, you’ll usually start by lying face down on the adjustment table. Your chiropractor will then assess which areas of the spine need attention, before using their hands to ‘pop’ or ‘click’ the necessary joints back into alignment. 

Can a chiropractic adjustment make you taller?

So, the question everyone’s been waiting for – can a chiropractor make you taller?! If you enter into your appointment expecting to come out 6 inches taller, then the answer is no. However, a chiropractor can help you to reach your optimal height potential using spinal adjustments. For example, a person’s full height might be 5 foot 10, but they appear to be 5 foot 8 due to poor posture or a trapped nerve which causes them to stoop over. 

Chiropractic adjustments help to relieve any pain you may be experiencing and the straightening or lengthening of the spine means you appear taller too! Here’s some advice on the best posture for your spine.

Book a consultation at Kasa Chiropractic today 

For more information on how Chiropractic Care can benefit you, or to schedule an appointment at Kasa Chiro, please contact us or book an appointment here.