Restricted growth is a symptom of a number of different medical conditions but is more noticeable in some conditions than others. It is usually categorised as either proportionate short stature (PSS), or disproportionate short stature (DSS)
PSS means there is general lack of growth throughout the body, with the abdomen and chest remaining in normal proportion with the legs. The most common cause of PSS is being born to small parents. It can also happen when the body does not produce enough growth hormone, or cannot process it properly.
DSS occurs when there is a problem with the way joints and bones grow caused by genetic mutation. Many children born with DSS will have average-height parents and the genetic mutation will have occurred spontaneously. Certain limbs may be shorter, or there might be a severe lack of general growth. Adults with DSS are usually between 107cm (3ft 6in) and 137cm (4ft 6in).
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