Growing Pains – Symptoms and Causes
Overview
Growing pains typically appear as aches or throbbing sensations in the legs. These pains usually affect both legs, occur at night, and can be intense enough to wake children from sleep.
Despite their name, growing pains aren’t actually caused by growth. Research suggests these discomforts may be related to a lower pain threshold or sometimes psychological factors.
To help a child experiencing growing pains:
- Apply a warm heating pad to sore muscles
- Gently massage the painful areas
- Provide comfort and reassurance
No specific medical treatment exists for growing pains, but these comfort measures can help reduce discomfort until the pain subsides naturally.
Symptoms
Growing pains typically cause an aching or throbbing feeling in the legs. The pain is often felt in the front of the thighs, calves, or behind the knees, and usually affects both legs.
Some children might also experience stomach pain or headaches when these episodes occur.
The discomfort doesn’t happen daily but comes and goes. These pains commonly appear in the late afternoon or early evening and are gone by morning. Sometimes, the pain can be strong enough to wake a child during the night.
When to Get Medical Help
Contact your child’s healthcare provider if you have concerns about your child’s leg pain, especially if the pain:
- Continues into the morning
- Is severe enough to limit normal activities
- Occurs in the joints
- Happens after an injury
- Doesn’t go away
Other warning signs that require medical attention include:
- Swelling or redness
- Tenderness in the painful area
- Fever
- Limping
- Unusual rash
- Decreased appetite
- Weakness or tiredness
These symptoms could indicate a more serious condition that needs proper medical evaluation and treatment.
Causes
The exact cause of growing pains remains unknown. Despite their name, these pains don’t actually relate to growth spurts or occur in areas where bones are growing.
Research suggests several possible explanations for growing pains:
- Muscle Fatigue: The most likely cause is overuse of muscles during daytime activities.
- Physical Activity: Running, jumping, and climbing can strain a child’s developing musculoskeletal system.
- Restless Legs Syndrome: Some studies suggest a possible connection between growing pains and this condition.
Children who are very physically active may experience more muscle strain, potentially leading to discomfort during rest periods at night. The pain typically occurs in muscles rather than joints or growth plates.
Risk Factors
Children in preschool and elementary school often experience growing pains. Girls tend to have these pains slightly more frequently than boys. Active play like running, jumping, or climbing during daytime activities may lead to increased leg discomfort at night.
