Measuring error or genetic particularity? Basketball player Victor Wembanyama has grown up again. The NBA formalized it during the “Media Day” on September 29. The young man now officially measures 2.235 meters, against 2.22 meters the previous year. In other words, the Spurs giant has earned more than a centimeter.
How is it possible? Dr. Gérald Kierzek, emergency doctor and medical director of True Medical, decrypts for us this biological mystery.
Late growth, rare but not impossible
For Dr. Gérald Kierzek, this phenomenon remains exceptional but not unexplained. “Growing up at 21 is unusual, but this can happen in some individuals. In people of very large size, growth can be prolonged slightly beyond the average due to later ossification of growth cartilages”.
But how does growth work in humans work? It essentially depends on growth hormones and sex hormones.
“”In boys, she reached her peak between 12 and 15 years old, then slows down to stop almost completely around 18-20 years old, when bone cartilages close“But, recalls Dr. Kierzek,”In rare cases, especially in elite athletes or those who have delayed bone maturity, this ossification can be a little slower, allowing a small size gain after 20 years“.
Genetics and physiology at stake
If Victor Wembanyama continues to grow, it is undoubtedly also a matter of genes. “”Genetics also plays a major role: when you come from a family of large, some genetic variants can prolong growth or delay bone maturation “ Details our expert again.
The radiographs of the wrists, which make it possible to assess “bone age” could show a slight gap with its real age. Does this situation have a risk?
“”In an adult of more than two meters, residual growth is rare but not pathological if it remains moderate and supervised“Specifies the doctor.
Sport, an engine … size
The intensity of sports could also influence this peculiarity. Some high -level athletes, subject to intense training from adolescence, see their physiological development slightly delayed. “”This can prolong the growth phase from one to two centimeters, which is exactly what we observe here “adds Dr. Kierzek.
But obviously, growing up at 21 is not without consequences on the body.
“”An extreme size requires more mechanical constraints on the spine, hips, knees and ankles. This can cause back pain, postural disorders, even deformations such as scoliosis or lordosis “ warns Dr. Kierzek.
And no, stretching does not allow you to grow
The back and trunk muscles must be reinforced to stabilize the framework, for these individuals. “”Among very great athletes, postural work is essential to prevent pain and early osteoarthritis. The joints are more requested, and the risk of tendonitis or ligament problems increases “.
Finally for those who hope “win a few centimeters“Starting, the doctor is formal:”Stretching improves posture and flexibility, which can give the impression of being greater, but it is not real growth. It’s just the column that stands up “.