Information
Growing pains are a common cause of recurring discomfort in children. They are aches, usually felt in the legs.
The pains usually occur in the evening or night. The pain can sometimes be bad enough to wake the child from sleep
Usually growing pains occur in the legs, particularly
- In the calf, shin, around the knees, ankles and thighs
Growing pains are usually felt in both legs but sometimes one more than the other, they are often felt in the areas between the joints, rather than in the joints themselves. They are not serious, and settle in time of their own accord.
Reassure – for most children pain will settle over time.
When to refer on:
- Pain is unilateral
- Pain is always localised
- Persistent, unremitting pain, daytime pain
- Pain affecting function/ADLs
- Swelling
- Systemic symptoms
- Limp
