13019 Growing Pains

Overview

Growing pains are harmless aches and pains, usually in the legs, that some children experience. They are not a sign of a serious illness and often happen in the evening or at night.

Yes, growing pains are one of the most common reasons for childhood leg pain. Many children will experience them at some point.

They usually affect active, otherwise healthy children between ages 3 and 12. Some children have them more often during growth spurts or after extra active days.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Aching or throbbing pain in the thighs, calves, or behind the knees
• Pain occurring in the late afternoon or evening, often waking the child at night
• Pain in both legs, not just one
• Muscle aches that feel better after gentle massage or stretching
• No limping, swelling, or lasting pain in the morning

Symptoms in children

• The pain is usually felt in both legs, often in the front of the thigh or back of the calf.
• Children may cry at night, but they seem comfortable again by morning.
• Activity does not always make it worse; often it appears after you have been active.

Symptoms in older adults

• Growing pains as a specific childhood condition do not affect older adults. If an adult has unexplained leg pain, it is important to see a doctor, as the cause is likely different.

Causes

Main causes

• No one knows exactly what causes growing pains, but they do not seem to be caused by growth spurts.
• Many experts think they are related to muscle fatigue from running, climbing, and jumping — much like overuse of muscles.
• Some children may have a low pain threshold or heightened sensitivity to normal muscle aches.

Risk factors

• Being an active child who is often on the move
• Age between 3 and 12
• A family history of growing pains (if parents had them, children are more likely)
• Having loose joints (hypermobility) in some cases

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• See a doctor promptly if your child has persistent limping, pain during the day, or pain only in one leg.
• Also see a doctor if the pain is severe enough to keep your child from normal activity for more than a few days.

Book a routine appointment if:

• Many children with growing pains do not need a doctor’s visit. But it can be reassuring to have a check if you are worried.
• Book a routine appointment if your child has occasional night leg pain that follows a pattern and is always better by morning.

Diagnosis

Doctors usually diagnose growing pains by listening to your child’s symptoms and doing a physical examination. There is no specific test for growing pains.

Tests that may be done

• Usually no tests are needed.
• If the doctor suspects another problem, they may recommend blood tests, an X-ray, or an ultrasound to rule out other causes.
• Keeping a diary of when the pain happens can help your doctor understand the pattern.

What to expect at your appointment

The doctor will ask about your child’s symptoms, check the legs gently, and watch your child walk. They will look for signs of a more serious condition, such as swelling or limping. If the examination is normal and the history is typical, you’ll likely be reassured it is growing pains.

Treatment

There is no specific cure for growing pains, but they can be managed. The pain usually gets better with simple home care and comfort measures. If the pain is disruptive, your doctor can offer advice on safe pain relief for your child.

Self-care at home

• Gently massage the sore area with your hands or a little lotion.
• Apply a warm towel or warm bath before bed to relax the muscles.
• Gently stretch your child’s legs — teach them simple calf and thigh stretches.
• Encourage activity during the day, but make sure your child takes breaks and cools down after sports.
• Give comfort and reassurance — a quiet cuddle can help a child relax.

Medical treatments

A doctor or pharmacist may suggest a safe, age-appropriate over-the-counter pain relief medicine (such as paracetamol or ibuprofen) to use occasionally on troublesome nights. Always follow the instructions on the medicine label and ask your pharmacist if you have any questions. Do not give medicine to a child under certain ages without medical advice.

Living with this condition

For most children, growing pains are an occasional nuisance rather than a constant problem. You can manage them by settling your child with a warm bath, gentle massage, and a calm bedtime routine.

Lifestyle tips

• Keep your child physically active, but allow rest after heavy exertion.
• Make sure they stay well hydrated throughout the day.
• Have a predictable, calming bedtime routine to help them sleep.

Diet and exercise

There is no special diet for growing pains, but a healthy, balanced diet with plenty of fruit, vegetables, and water is good for growing bones and muscles. Regular physical activity is fine — it may even reduce the frequency of pains by keeping muscles strong and flexible.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Children can feel anxious if pain wakes them at night, and parents can worry too. Reassuring your child that the pain is normal and will pass can help both of you relax. If you or your child are feeling especially anxious, talk to your health visitor or GP.

Prevention

Growing pains cannot be completely prevented, but you may reduce episodes by helping your child warm up properly before exercise, stay hydrated, and stretch after play. A balanced routine with enough rest may also help.

Complications

If left untreated

• Growing pains do not cause any long-term harm to bones, muscles, or joints.
• If left unmanaged, night pain may disrupt sleep and cause daytime tiredness, but this is not dangerous.

Long-term outlook

The outlook for growing pains is excellent. They are not a sign of a serious illness and almost always stop by the time a child reaches adolescence. With simple comfort measures and reassurance, you and your child can easily ride through these aches.

Find support

External links open third-party websites. Ruqelo Health is not responsible for external content. Listing an organisation does not imply endorsement.