When your child says their legs hurt, it can be difficult for parents to determine what is causing the pain. Is it a normal part of growing up or a sports injury? Knowing the difference can help parents take the appropriate steps to help relieve pain and keep kids active and healthy.
Growing pains are common in childhood and can be frustrating for families. If your child is experiencing frequent leg pain, it is important to acknowledge their discomfort and seek guidance if the pain continues. Schedule an appointment with the pediatric orthopaedic team at Endeavor Health or call (630) 646-7000 for expert care.
What growing pains really feel like
Growing pains usually feel achy or crampy and most often occur in the lower legs. Children may feel discomfort in the hips, knees, ankles, shins, calves, thighs or behind the knees, and the pain may affect one or both legs. It typically appears in the afternoon or evening and can sometimes wake a child at night.
Growing pains are most common in children aged three to 12, with those between five and nine experiencing them most often. Boys and girls are affected equally. While it was once thought that rapid growth alone caused these pains, experts now believe they may be linked to high activity levels combined with rapid growth.
Simple ways to soothe growing pains
The good news is that growing pains often get better with rest and usually go away by morning. Gentle massage, a warm bath or shower, and a heating pad can help relax sore muscles. Occasional use of acetaminophen or ibuprofen may also provide relief.
If pain continues for several months, physical therapy may help strengthen muscles and improve flexibility. Sometimes adjusting activities or adding rest days can also reduce discomfort.
When pain may be something else
Before diagnosing growing pains, doctors rule out other possible causes of pain. Signs such as limping, redness or swelling around a joint may indicate something different. Changes in urine color or signs of illness should also be evaluated by a physician.
Doctors may also check for new lumps or bumps in the legs to rule out rare but serious conditions. Joint swelling that has occurred over several months could signal juvenile idiopathic arthritis. Injuries that happened during the day, even ones a child may not remember clearly, can also explain sudden pain.
Common spring sports injuries in kids
Spring sports bring excitement and activity, but they also bring the possibility of injury. Common spring sports injuries include wrist fractures, collarbone injuries, ankle sprains and accidents from trampolines or playground equipment, like monkey bars. These injuries often cause sudden pain, swelling or difficulty moving the affected area.
Girls playing sports like soccer also face a higher risk of ACL injuries in their knees. Many soccer training programs now include exercises aimed at strengthening muscles and reducing the risk of these injuries. Knowing these common sports injuries can help parents decide when to seek medical care.
When loose ligaments are involved
Some children naturally have looser ligaments than others. This can make joints more flexible but may also contribute to increased soreness after activity. Once more serious causes are ruled out, children with growing pains and loose ligaments can usually continue participating safely in sports.
Helping your child stay active and healthy
If your child continues to struggle with leg pain, getting the right diagnosis can provide peace of mind and relief. The pediatric orthopaedic specialists at Endeavor Health can help identify the cause of your child’s discomfort and create a plan that helps them return to the activities they love. Schedule an appointment today or call (630) 646-7000 to get started.
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