Growing pains

• email
• save PDF
• print

When to see the doctor

See your doctor if you suspect that there is something more serious going on – if the pains are very severe and persistent, if there is a limp, or an affected part is tender or feels hot.

What causes them?

The cause of growing pains is uncertain. They are said to be related to exercise, but this is not always so, and in most cases there are no known precipitating events. In some children growing pains may be associated with abdominal pain and headaches, suggesting that it may be part of the way in which the child responds to stress.

What are the symptoms?

The child complains of aching or a burning sensation in the legs – in the muscles of the thighs, calves, feet or in the joints. The pains can also occur, though far less commonly, in the arms or other parts of the body. The pains usually occur at night, and sometimes wake the child from sleep, but are also common in the daytime. They are rarely severe enough to interfere with daily activity.

In most children, the pain or discomfort is transient, irregular and unpredictable – it tends to come and go. The natural history is for growing pains to get better over time.

A child with growing pains will generally be happy to allow you to massage the painful area. This often helps to distinguish between growing pains and a more serious orthopaedic condition. Children with leg pains due to a more serious cause will usually avoid letting anyone touch the area.

Is there a test?

No investigations are usually necessary. Occasionally the doctor will order an X-ray or blood test to exclude other conditions, such as a fracture or inflammation.

How is it treated?

There is no specific treatment for growing pains. Massaging or placing a heat pack over the affected area may help. Occasionally a mild analgesic is given to the child, but mostly all that is needed is reassurance and the general measures described above. There is no need to restrict activity.

How can I prevent it?

There is nothing that can be done to prevent growing pains.

• Rated27 ratingsRate this item
• FeedbackTell us what you think of this item