Growth Velocity
Computes yearly growth velocity (cm/yr) from two dated height measurements and compares it to the typical range for age, flagging the growth spurt (PHV). Informational only; not a diagnosis.
Frequently asked questions
Why can velocity matter more than height itself?
Absolute height shows where a child is; velocity shows direction and speed. It is among the most sensitive early signs of growth problems, because a child can look normal on percentiles while velocity has slowed.
How far apart should measurements be?
For reliability, at least 6 months — ideally 6–12. Shorter intervals are very sensitive to measurement error and can mislead.
How much growth is normal at school age?
Typical school-age velocity is ~5–6 cm/yr. A persistent rate below 4 cm/yr warrants clinical review. During the growth spurt it can reach ~8–9 (girls) and ~9–10 (boys) cm/yr.
How do I recognise the growth spurt (PHV)?
A marked rise in velocity within the pubertal window signals PHV. Injury risk rises, so impact load in sport should be adjusted. The tool flags this as a separate category.