Growing pains in kids are cramps or pounding pains in the thighs, shins, calves, or back of the knees (1). They are often seen in children between three and 14 years, mostly in those who are physically quite active and have flexible joints. Although harmless, growing pains in children can be troublesome at times (2). Read through to understand the causes, symptoms, and treatments for growing pains in children.
Symptoms Of Growing Pains In Children
Muscular pain in the legs is the most common symptom of growing pains in children. The pain may affect both legs, and the child may experience the following additional symptoms (3).
The leg pain comes and goes and occurs daily or occasionally. The leg pain may begin in the afternoon, evening, or around bedtime. The leg pain disappears in the morning. The leg pain can be severe and wake up a child from sleep.
The leg pain may occasionally affect the muscles of the arms as well. The leg pain may be accompanied by headaches.
Note: Despite what the name suggests, growing pains do not occur due to rapid growth during the growth spurt. Also, the pain affects the child’s muscles and not the joints, and hence, they can bend, walk, run, and play normally. The intensity and frequency of growing pains vary from one child to another. Some children may experience pain daily, while others may not. Also, some may experience severe pain, while others may not feel much pain.
Causes Of Growing Pains In Children
The exact cause of growing pains is not known. However, experts believe that the following could be the probable reasons for growing pains in children (1) (3). Besides these, some studies show that children with growing pains have more tender points and a low pain threshold than other children. It indicates that growing pains may be a variant of a non-inflammatory pain syndrome, especially in younger children (4). Note: Unless growing pains affect a child’s daily functioning, they aren’t a cause for concern. According to the American College of Rheumatology, “Growing pains are the most common cause of musculoskeletal pain in children. Up to 50% of children can experience growing pains (1).”
How Are Growing Pains Diagnosed?
There are no specific tests to diagnose growing pains in children. Generally, the child’s symptoms, medical history, and physical exam help make a diagnosis. Besides, the doctor may ask you how long the child has been experiencing the pains and if the child has pain in one leg or both. The doctor may order some laboratory or imaging tests, such as an X-ray or MRI, to rule out other health issues. Some of the symptoms that may indicate that your child has issues other than growing pains include (1)
Continuous and increasing pain. Pain stays in the same location. Stiff joints in the mornings. Swelling or redness over a specific area.
Limping.
A few health conditions that can cause leg pains in children are arthritis, osteomyelitis (bacterial infection), and Ross River infection (viral infection) (3). Note: Growing pains can be painful enough to wake a child in the middle of the night, making them feel sleepy the next day. Hence, prompt steps are necessary to help a child manage the pain and have a peaceful sleep.
How To Treat Growing Pains In Children?
Since the cause of growing pains is unknown, the treatment is aimed at providing symptomatic relief to the child. Generally, the treatment course is individualized and may entail treatment modalities, such as (1)(5)
Asking the child to take periodic rests between strenuous activities. Applying a hot compress or heating pad to the affected area. Taking a warm bath before bedtime. Image: Shutterstock Wearing supportive shoes during the day.
The doctor may recommend orthotics (shoe inserts) for children with leg pains due to flat feet.
When To See A Doctor?
The following signs and symptoms may indicate that your child’s aches aren’t due to growing pains. Instead, they could be due to an infection or injury (2)(5).
Extreme pain in both or one leg Persistent pain during the day Pain begins at night and continues to the next day Pain in the joints, such as ankle and knees Bruising, swelling, or rash on the legs that do not improve within 24 hours despite using home remedies, such as cold packs or compresses Reddening or increased warmth in the leg muscles Limping due to severe pain Soreness on one or both legs Fever and feeling of malaise Loss of appetite
Seek your child’s pediatrician promptly if your child has any of these symptoms.
