How can you recognise growing pains in children?
AI-generated illustration. This is not a real patient or a diagnostic image.
“Growing pains” is a name used for certain recurring leg pains in children. They have not been shown to result directly from bones getting longer. They are most common in preschool and school-age children, approximately between ages 3 and 12.
What is the usual pattern?
Pain typically affects both legs in the evening or at night, with completely pain-free days in between. It should settle by morning, allowing the child to continue normal daytime activities. Persistent joint swelling or a limp is not typical.
Gentle massage and comfortably warm, non-burning heat may help. However, recurring pain should be assessed through a history and examination rather than simply given a label. Extensive testing may be unnecessary when the pattern is typical and examination is normal.
When is a check needed?
Persistent pain in one leg, morning pain, joint swelling, limping, fever, unexplained weight loss or unusual tiredness needs assessment. Do not wait if the child cannot bear weight, appears generally unwell, or has joint swelling together with fever.
Sources
This article provides general information. Individual diagnosis and treatment require a clinical assessment.