Growing pains are a common occurrence in children, typically affecting those between the ages of 3 and 12. These pains are usually felt in the legs, particularly in the thighs, calves, or behind the knees, and can be uncomfortable enough to wake a child from sleep. Although the name suggests a direct link to growth, growing pains are not necessarily caused by growth spurts. At Intown Pediatric & Adolescent Medicine, we provide expert diagnosis and treatment for growing pains, helping families across Atlanta manage their child’s discomfort and ensure they remain active and healthy.
What Are Growing Pains?
Growing pains are often described as an aching or throbbing sensation in the muscles, usually in both legs. These pains are typically harmless, but they can cause significant discomfort, especially at night. Despite their name, growing pains are not directly linked to physical growth. Instead, they are believed to result from overuse of the muscles during the day, especially in active children who participate in sports or physical play.
According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), about 25-40% of children experience growing pains at some point during their childhood. The condition usually peaks between ages 4 and 6, but some children may experience growing pains into their pre-teen years.
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Signs and Symptoms of Growing Pains
Recognizing the symptoms of growing pains can help differentiate them from other causes of leg pain, such as injuries or more serious conditions.
Common signs and symptoms of growing pains include:
Aching or throbbing pain in the legs
The pain is usually felt in the thighs, calves, or behind the knees and often affects both legs.
Pain that occurs in the late afternoon or evening
Growing pains tend to worsen at night and may even wake your child from sleep.
Intermittent pain
The discomfort typically comes and goes, and may not occur every day.
No swelling or redness
Unlike injuries, growing pains are not associated with swelling, redness, or warmth in the affected area.
No pain during the day
Growing pains generally do not cause discomfort during daytime activities, and your child can usually participate in sports or play without limitations.
If your child is experiencing persistent pain, swelling, or difficulty walking, it’s important to consult a pediatrician to rule out other possible causes, such as injury or more serious musculoskeletal conditions.
Diagnosing Growing Pains
At Intown Pediatric & Adolescent Medicine, our pediatricians are experienced in diagnosing growing pains by reviewing your child’s symptoms and medical history. In most cases, growing pains can be diagnosed through a physical examination, as they are not linked to specific tests or imaging studies. We will assess your child’s overall health, check for any signs of injury or infection, and discuss their daily activities to determine whether their leg pain is consistent with growing pains.
In rare cases, additional tests, such as X-rays or blood tests, may be recommended to rule out other conditions, such as juvenile arthritis, fractures, or infections, if your child’s symptoms do not match the typical pattern of growing pains.
How to Treat Growing Pains in Children
Growing pains are harmless and usually resolve on their own as the child grows older. However, there are several ways to manage the discomfort and help your child feel more comfortable:
Gentle Massage
Massaging the legs can help soothe the muscles and relieve pain. Gently rub the affected areas in a circular motion to ease tension and provide comfort to your child, especially before bedtime.
Stretching Exercises
Encouraging your child to do light stretching exercises can help reduce muscle stiffness and prevent growing pains from occurring. Stretching the calves, thighs, and hamstrings before bed can relax the muscles and improve flexibility.
Warm Compresses or Heating Pads
Applying a warm compress or heating pad to the legs can help relax the muscles and reduce pain. Make sure the compress is not too hot, and limit the application to about 15-20 minutes.
Over-the-Counter Pain Relief
For more severe pain, over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can be used to alleviate discomfort. Always follow the dosing instructions and consult your pediatrician if you have concerns about giving your child medication.
Reassurance and Comfort
Growing pains can be distressing for children, especially if they wake up at night in discomfort. Offering reassurance and comfort can help ease their anxiety and let them know the pain is temporary.
When to See a Pediatrician
While growing pains are generally harmless, it’s important to see a pediatrician if your child’s pain is accompanied by any of the following symptoms:
- Persistent or severe pain that lasts throughout the day or does not improve with treatment.
- Swelling, redness, or warmth in the affected area.
- Pain in one leg that does not affect the other leg.
- Limping or difficulty walking during the day.
- Fever or weight loss along with leg pain.
These symptoms may indicate a more serious underlying condition, such as an infection, injury, or musculoskeletal disorder, and should be evaluated by a medical professional.
Frequently Asked Questions About Childhood Growing Pains
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While the exact cause is unknown, growing pains are thought to be related to muscle overuse during physical activity, rather than actual growth.
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Growing pains are most common in the late afternoon or evening, and they may wake your child at night. Pain during the day is less typical and may indicate a different issue.
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Most children outgrow growing pains by their pre-teen years, though some may experience them into early adolescence.
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Yes, regular stretching exercises before bedtime can help relax the muscles and reduce the likelihood of growing pains occurring.
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Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can be used for severe pain, but most growing pains can be managed with massage, stretching, and warm compresses.
Schedule an Appointment for Growing Pains Treatment in Atlanta
If your child is experiencing frequent leg pain or discomfort, contact Intown Pediatric & Adolescent Medicine to schedule an evaluation. Our experienced pediatricians provide expert care for growing pains and other musculoskeletal issues at our locations in Glenwood Park, Brookhaven, and Decatur, serving families throughout Atlanta.