Is hanging increase height?

As a health and fitness expert with a background in biomechanics, I often get asked about various methods that people believe can influence their height. The idea that hanging might increase one's height is a topic that has been discussed and debated for quite some time. It's important to approach this question with a scientific perspective and an understanding of human anatomy and physiology.
Firstly, it's crucial to understand that height is primarily determined by genetics. The length of your bones, particularly the long bones in your legs and spine, is largely a result of the genetic code you inherit from your parents. While nutrition and overall health can play a role in reaching your maximum genetic potential for height, once your growth plates (epiphyseal plates) close, typically in the late teens or early twenties, your bone length is set.

Now, let's delve into the concept of hanging as a method to increase height. The claim that hanging can lead to an increase in height is based on the premise that it applies traction to the spine, which could potentially elongate it. This is where the idea that stretching and hanging can reverse spinal compression comes into play. Spinal compression is a natural process that occurs as a result of the daily wear and tear on the spine, including the effects of gravity. It's true that this compression can lead to a temporary reduction in height, which is often noticeable in the evening compared to the morning when the spine has had time to decompress overnight.

However, the idea that hanging can lead to a permanent increase in height is misleading. While it's possible that the traction from hanging may temporarily elongate the spine, this effect is short-lived. Once you stop hanging and the forces of gravity take over again, your spine will return to its compressed state, and any perceived increase in height will be lost.

Moreover, it's important to consider the potential risks associated with hanging. Prolonged or excessive hanging can lead to injury, particularly if done improperly. The forces applied to the spine can cause damage to the intervertebral discs, which are the shock-absorbing cushions between the vertebrae. This can result in conditions like herniated discs or even spinal fractures if done with excessive force or without proper technique.

In addition, it's worth noting that the amount of height that can be temporarily gained through hanging is minimal. The claim that spinal compression can reduce your height temporarily by 1%, which could be as much as a half inch in tall individuals, is an exaggeration. The actual amount of height reduction due to spinal compression is likely to be much less significant and may not even be noticeable to the naked eye.

In conclusion, while hanging might provide a temporary and minor increase in height due to the reversal of some spinal compression, it is not a viable or safe long-term solution for increasing one's height. It's essential to focus on maintaining good posture, engaging in regular physical activity, and ensuring a balanced diet to support overall health and well-being. Attempting to increase height through methods like hanging is not recommended and can potentially lead to injury.

Additionally, there are claims that stretching and hanging can increase your height. ... Hanging and stretching can reverse the compression, making you slightly taller until your spine compresses again. Spinal compression can reduce your height temporarily by 1%. In tall people this can be as much as a half inch.Nov 3, 2016