How can growing pains be diagnosed in children?

4/11/2024
8 minutes

Growing pain in children is a common and worrying issue for many parents who experience it during their children's growth stages. This type of pain is usually felt in the legs and during the night and may appear suddenly. Although these pains may cause concern, in most cases, they are normal and are caused by the rapid growth of children. In this article, we will examine the causes, symptoms and treatment methods of growing pains in children so that parents can better cope with this situation and help their children.

What is growing pains in children?

Growing pain in children is an unfamiliar and often annoying pain that occurs mostly between the ages of 3 and 5 and again between the ages of 8 and 12. These pains, which appear mainly in the legs, including the legs, the front of the thighs, and the back of the knees, are sharp and throbbing. Growing pains usually come to children at the end of the day or at the beginning of sleep and disappear in the morning. These pains may be mild in some children, but in some cases they are severe enough to wake up the child.

Although these pains seem to be worse after daily activities, there is no evidence that these pains are due to bone growth. About 25 to 40 percent of children experience these pains, and there is often no need for serious concern, unless unusual symptoms are observed. In this case, it is better for parents to best pediatrician to ensure the complete health of their child.

Symptoms of growing pains in children

Growing pains in children usually appear in the form of sharp, throbbing pains and occasionally in the legs. The pain is often felt in the front of the thigh, behind the knee and leg, and usually involves both legs, although not always at the same time. Children may experience this pain in the late afternoon and at night, so that it sometimes wakes them up. These pains are mostly felt deep in the muscles and not in the joints, and fever, swelling, or redness are usually not seen.

Growing pain in children can have different intensities; For some, it may be mild, while for others, it can be painful and overwhelming. When the child has other symptoms such as headache or abdominal pain, you should pay more attention to his condition. If this pain continues throughout the day, if touching the painful area of the child is uncomfortable, or if it is accompanied by symptoms such as limping, it is better to go to the doctor for further examinations to make sure that there is not a more serious problem.

Reasons of growing pains in children

The exact cause of growing pains in children remains unknown, and until now specific researches have not been able to find a precise connection between bone growth and these pains. However, factors such as family history, low pain threshold, decreased bone strength, vitamin D deficiency, and some mental disorders have been identified as possible causes of growth pain in children. It is noteworthy that growing pains usually do not occur in areas where bone is growing or during rapid growth.

Some doctors believe that excessive activity of children during the day, especially games and vigorous activities, can lead to muscle pain at night. This factor is one of the most likely causes of growing pains in children. Therefore, these pains are not a sign of bone growth and are mainly related to muscle fatigue.

At what age does growing pain occur?

Growing pains in children usually appear at certain ages, which are mostly associated with periods of increased activity and growth. These pains are common mainly in two age ranges of three to five years and then in eight to twelve years. During these periods, children are often more active, and these pains are more visible after vigorous days or prolonged games. Upon entering adolescence, growing pains may intensify, and some children between the ages of eleven and fifteen experience it more due to their height and physical changes.

These pains usually occur at night and cause discomfort to the child when resting; But they disappear by morning. Of course, these pains appear intermittently and are not necessarily experienced every day. Paying attention to symptoms and managing activities at this age can help reduce the severity of growing pains.

What is the difference between growing pains and other muscle and bone pains?

Growing pain in children is distinguished from other muscle and bone pain by certain features. These pains are often sharp, throbbing and periodic, which are usually felt in both legs of the child and mostly in the thigh, back of the leg, and behind the knee. Unlike other muscle pains that can be the result of injury or constant physical strain, growing pains occur mainly at night and after a busy day, and in most cases, are completely gone by morning.

One of the important differences between growing pains and other pains is that these pains do not cause inflammation, swelling, or changes in the joints, and the child usually feels better when the pain is touched or massaged. On the other hand, pain caused by bone injuries or infections may be accompanied by symptoms such as fever, redness, or swelling. Knowing these differences can help parents manage growing pains more calmly and see a doctor if necessary.

Diagnosis of growing pains in children

Diagnosing growing pains in children can be challenging for parents because these pains have similar symptoms to other muscle and bone pains. In the first step, the doctor usually performs a physical examination and asks the parents questions about medical history, daily activities, and other symptoms. Accurately answering these questions will help the doctor to better diagnose the possible cause of the pain. In many cases, using clinical information, it is possible to determine whether the pain is due to growth or not.

To make sure that growing pains in children are not caused by more serious factors, the doctor may order tests such as growth hormones, blood tests, or imaging such as x-rays, CT scans, and ultrasounds. These checks help identify other possible causes and address concerns. Finally, based on the obtained results, the doctor suggests the appropriate treatment method to reduce pain symptoms.

How is growth pain treatment done in children?

Treatment of growing pains in children is more focused on relieving symptoms and reducing their discomfort, because these pains usually improve over time without the need for serious intervention. Parents can accompany the child during this period by doing some simple methods. One of the most effective solutions is the gentle massage of the leg muscles, which reduces the pain and relaxes the child. Also, using hot or cold compresses, especially before going to bed, can soothe the muscles and reduce the intensity of pain.

In cases where the child's pain is more, the use of over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen in a suitable dose is recommended, but the use of aspirin is prohibited in children under 16 years of age. Also, stretching the leg muscles during the day, especially the movements recommended by the doctor, can help prevent night pain. Observing these tips can make it easier for children and their parents to go through the period of growth pain in children.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can growing pains in children be a sign of more serious diseases?

No, usually growing pains are normal. But if it is accompanied by fever, redness or movement problem, you should see a doctor.

When should we go to the doctor if the child's growth pain continues?

If the pain is severe and persistent or continues throughout the day, it is better to consult a doctor.

Does growing pain need special treatment?

No, growing pains usually get better on their own. Home methods such as massage and warm compresses can be used for relief.

Conclusion

Finally, growing pains in children is a normal and common phenomenon that is usually caused by their daily activities and rapid growth. By knowing the causes and symptoms of this pain and using simple relief methods, parents can help their children to get through this period more easily. Although growing pains usually get better on their own, consulting a doctor is always recommended if you develop any worrisome symptoms to rule out other potential problems.