Growth disorders are a type of condition that can affect a person’s height, weight and sometimes, sexual development (e.g., delayed puberty).

Growth problems can be influenced by genetics, nutrition, hormonal disorders and growth factors (proteins that stimulate cellular growth). A growth problem can indicate slow development of physical skills, delays in social and mental skills, and delays in sexual development.

If you have noticed your child is not growing properly, there may be an underlying condition that is causing it.

Growth hormone is a chemical messenger released from a part of the brain known as the pituitary gland. The purpose of growth hormone is not just to help children become taller, it sends messages to almost every part of the body telling it to grow and function. This includes muscles, bone, heart and brain—affecting cardiac and cognitive function. If growth hormone is too low, this can lead to reduced growth along with a number of health problems.

The processes affecting growth sometimes do not work as expected. For example, genetic factors can affect the part of the brain that releases growth hormone—the pituitary gland.

Treatments associated with different types of growth disorders can vary, ranging from medical to psychological, and may often be a combination.

Medical treatments 
Growth hormone can be given to help replace the growth hormone that is low or missing within the body. This is generally taken as a subcutaneous injection to help to stimulate growth. This is usually taken at the same time everyday or weekly. It can be taken by both adults and children.

Treating the other aspects of the disorder 
Sometimes growth disorders will need multiple treatments. For example, people living with Turner syndrome may need growth hormone, as well as other treatments such as estrogen therapy and cyclic progestins to help prevent further health problems with sexual development and menstruation.

Psychological treatments 
Living with a growth disorder affects not only physical health, but mental health too. Children and their caregivers may need help from a mental health professional in order to deal with any social or emotional difficulties they may be facing.

Physiotherapy 
For school-aged children with growth disorders like achondroplasia, a physiotherapist or occupational therapist prior to the start of school can increase independence across self-care and mobility.

Exercise 
Some growth disorders, such as Turner syndrome, can result in low bone mineral density. Along with appropriate medical treatments, regular physical exercise is vital to help maintain normal levels of bone mineral density.

Nutritionist/dietitian:
Certain growth disorders, such as Prader-Willi syndrome, can unfortunately lead to weight gain and even obesity. In these situations, it may be beneficial to seek the advice of an accredited nutritionist or dietitian who can help develop a meal plan or manage eating habits.