Why did Lionel Messi need height treatment? 

The Argentine star was diagnosed with GHD when he was 11

One of the greatest players in this sport has had his difficulties and triumphs during his career. As many people are aware, Messi was short in stature. He was told by a doctor that he was unlikely to play football due to his diminutive stature. Messi needed medication to improve his height at an early age. Since he had a rare form of growth hormone deficit, which caused him to be significantly shorter and more vulnerable than other youngsters his age.

Messi was diagnosed with GHD when he was 11 years old, and while he played for Argentine clubs River Plate and Old Boys, neither club could afford his treatment.

What exactly is GHD, and how does it affect your body?

Growth hormone shortage is a form of disease that affects the pituitary gland, which is located near the base of your head. The gland regulates the synthesis of growth hormone, which allows children to grow and adults to check their bone density, muscle suppleness, and the development of body fat.

GHD can harm your body in a variety of ways, but the specific cause is unknown. Infections, brain tumours, traumas, and radiation therapy are among the most common.

A few of the causes that can harm your health include limited growth and increased fat around the waist. Also decreased muscle mass in adults and behavioural disorders such as despair and anxiety.

How did Messi receive the treatment? 

Due to financial constraints, Messi was unable to receive treatment; however, the player continued to play football, and his brilliance was recognised around Europe; Barcelona were startled by his performance and promptly signed him; this altered the lives of Lionel Messi and Barcelona.

Barcelona were able to give finances for his therapy, which cost $900 per month and required two years of treatment. Despite the fact that Barcelona board members were opposed to his acquisitions owing to his delicate body and medical bills, which were higher than what any player at La Masia earned.

However, the seven-time Ballon d'Or winner received the support of many members and was signed on a famous napkin. Messi joined the U-14 squad, and so began his meteoric rise to become one of the best players in the world.

However, Messi has faced criticism for his therapy, with many believing that he uses drugs to increase his performance in games. Moreover, this is not the case; if Messi had not undergone the treatment. He would have grown with low bone density, which would have held him away from the sport.