Is your child complaining of sore legs and feet after a big day or running around? Or are they waking at night with aching limbs? This could be a sign of growing pains – a very common experience for many children and adolescents.
Whilst the term ‘growing pains’ is suited to describe general aches for children about to, or currently going through a growth spurt, it’s important to know when this is just part of growing up or when this could be something more.
Growing pains can be very uncomfortable for young people and can affect youth very differently. They can often arise as aches, commonly in the legs, feet or behind the knees. They are often worse in the afternoon or can even wake children from their sleep. Although growing pains are harmless and not permanent, not all pain is growing pain. If you find your child has pain that is:
- Persistent or worsening
- Localised to one area or side
- Causing them to limp or stop activity
- Associated with redness, swelling or warmth
- Occurring early in the morning or with increased activity levels
- Not improving with rest, ice, heat or massage
.. It’s worth seeing professional advice.
Why see a physiotherapist?
A physiotherapist can help you determine whether the pain is truly growing pains or another musculoskeletal issue that might need treatment. Early assessment is key to identifying and managing conditions that could otherwise impact your child’s development, activity levels, or enjoyment of sport.
Common musculoskeletal conditions associated with children, growing, activity levels, adolescence and young people in sport are:
- Osgood-Schlatter’s
- Sever’s Disease
- Hypermobility
- Scoliosis
- Toe walking
- Pain when playing sport or exercising
While growing pains can be a normal part of childhood for many, not all aches and pains should be dismissed. An early visit to a physiotherapist can provide peace of mind, early diagnosis and the right tools to keep your child active and thriving.
– Katherine Plume, Doctor of Physiotherapy, Bachelor of Exercise and Nutrition Science
