Growing Pains

Film info

Film summary

Learn how bones change shape to form the adult skeleton, the problems this causes for growing teenagers, and how to ensure healthy bones for life.

Key facts

• Hormones released during puberty cause a rapid increase in the mass and size of the skeleton.
• The growth spurt begins in the hands and feet, and then the arms and legs.
• The teenage brain struggles to keep track of the extended arms and legs making balancing difficult.
• Exercising during this growth spurt makes the bones stronger and more resilient to osteoporosis.