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Growing Pains in Children: What Parents Should Know and Do
Summary
Growing pains are a common experience in children aged 8 to 12. They often occur in the legs during the evening or night but do not affect daytime activities. While they can be uncomfortable, these pains are usually harmless and short-lived, lasting from a few months to two years. Gentle stretches, warm baths, and over-the-counter pain relief can help ease the discomfort.
What Is This & Why It Matters
Growing pains refer to leg aches that many children experience as they grow. These pains typically occur at night when your child is resting after a day of activity. According to the latest guidelines from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), these pains are normal and do not indicate any serious medical condition. Understanding what growing pains are can help you provide comfort to your child and know when to seek further medical advice.
What You Should Do
- Encourage your child to perform gentle leg stretches before bedtime.
- Offer a warm bath to soothe their muscles before they sleep.
- If needed, give ibuprofen (10 mg per kg of body weight) every 6-8 hours for pain relief.
- Keep a pain diary to track when and how often your child experiences these pains.
- Ensure your child wears well-fitting shoes with good support during the day.
- Provide plenty of reassurance and comfort when they experience pain.
What You Should NOT Do
- Avoid giving more than the recommended dose of ibuprofen without consulting a doctor.
- Do not ignore persistent or severe pain that disrupts daily activities.
- Refrain from using heating pads directly on their skin without supervision.
- Do not panic if the pain returns; it is usually part of the growing process.
- Avoid encouraging strenuous physical activities right before bedtime.
Symptoms: Normal vs Warning Signs
Normal (Don't Worry)
- Pain in both legs during the evening or night.
- The pain subsides by morning, allowing normal daily activities.
- Pain is not constant and may have days without any discomfort.
- Your child remains active and plays normally during the day.
- Mild soreness or aching that can be relieved with home remedies.
Call Your Doctor If...
- Swelling or redness around the joints or muscles.
- Persistent limping or difficulty walking during the day.
- Fever accompanying the leg pains.
- Pain that persists through the night and into the next day.
- Any sudden, unexplained weight loss or fatigue.
FAQ
What exactly are growing pains?
Growing pains are common leg aches experienced by children, especially at night, due to physical activity throughout the day.
How long do growing pains last?
They can last anywhere from a few months up to two years but often come and go.
Are growing pains harmful?
No, they are generally harmless and do not lead to any long-term health issues.
When should I worry about my child's leg pain?
If there is swelling, fever, limping during the day, or if pain persists through the night, contact your doctor.
What can I do to help my child feel better?
Encourage gentle stretching, offer warm baths, and provide over-the-counter pain relief as needed.
Can growing pains occur in one leg only?
They usually affect both legs but can occasionally be felt in just one leg.
Should my child stop playing sports because of these pains?
No, they can continue their usual activities unless advised otherwise by a healthcare provider.
Is there a specific time when these pains are most likely to happen?
Growing pains often occur in the evening or at night after a day of normal activity.