Understanding Growth Spurts In Children And Adolescents

Understanding Growth Spurts In Children And Adolescents

Write a short note on growth spurts.
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Write short answers on growth spurts.
Answer.

Growth Spurts

• Growth does not take place at the same rate all times. There seems to be a period when a sudden acceleration of growth occurs. This sudden increase in growth is termed as growth spurt
• This sudden growth may occur due to physiological alteration in the hormonal section.

Timings of Growth Spurts

• Just before birth
• Infantile or childhood growth spurt: Up to 3 years of age.
• Mixed dentition growth spurt or juvenile growth spurt
  • In boys: 8 to 11 years
  • In girls: 7 to 9 years
• Pre-pubertal growth spurt or adolescent growth spurt
  • In boys: 14 to 16 years
  • In girls: 11 to 13 years

Clinical Importance of Growth Spurts

• Growth spurts are used in the treatment of growth modulation
• Safety valve mechanism starts.
• Growth modification by means of functional and orthodontic appliances elicits better response during growth spurts.
• Surgical correction should be carried out after cessation of the growth spurts.