As parents, we want nothing more than to see our children happy and healthy. But sometimes, they experience aches and pains that can leave us concerned. One common complaint you might encounter is ‘growing pains’. Growing pains are a common part of childhood, especially for active little athletes, and we’re here to help parents understand and manage this phase.
At Physio Fit Adelaide, our team of physiotherapists have spent years working closely with junior athletes, proudly sponsoring and supporting clubs like Tea Tree Gully Little Athletics, Enfield Little Athletics, Salisbury Little Athletics, Northern Districts Little Athletics and Western Little Athletics. As part of this commitment to each club, we volunteer our time at events to provide care for the young athletes and to answer questions from concerned parents. Over the years, we’ve fielded many questions about growing pains, and we believe it’s essential for every parent to know how to recognise, manage, and support their child through this stage.
Below are some of the most common questions we are asked along with the best ways to help keep your young athlete active and healthy!
At what age do growing pains start?
Growing pains often occur during the ages of 3 to 12 years old. This is a time of rapid growth for many children, and their bodies may be struggling to adjust to all of the changes. Commonly, kids will use words such as ‘sore’, ‘uncomfortable’ or ‘aching’ to describe their pain. They will usually experience this pain and report it to parents in the afternoons and evenings.
What causes growing pains in children?
Growing pains are common, but their exact cause remains somewhat unclear. They are not directly related to the process of physical growth itself. Instead, growing pains are believed to be associated with the rapid development and adjustment of a child’s musculoskeletal system (their muscles and bones) during periods of growth spurts.
One theory suggests that growing pains may arise from the increased tension on tendons, ligaments, and muscles as they adapt to the changes in a child’s body (such as growing bones). This tension, combined with the stresses of physical activity and sports, can lead to discomfort and pain. Another perspective proposes that growing pains may be linked to minor muscle fatigue or overuse, especially in children who are particularly active or participate in sports. The muscles experiencing this strain may respond with soreness and aching.
It’s important to note that growing pains are considered a normal part of a child’s development and do not indicate any serious underlying medical condition. While they can be uncomfortable, they are generally harmless and temporary. If a child is experiencing persistent or severe pain, or if there are other concerning symptoms, book an appointment with our team of expert physiotherapists so that your child can get a thorough assessment.
How can a physiotherapist help treat growing pains?
Physiotherapists play a crucial role in managing growing pains. We can use a variety of techniques to provide relief and improve a child’s comfort. This may include:
- Muscle Stretching and Strengthening Exercises: Physiotherapists can recommend specific exercises that target the muscles affected by growing pains. These exercises help improve flexibility and strength, reducing the frequency and intensity of pain.
- Massage and Manual Therapy: Gentle massage techniques and manual therapy can be applied to the affected muscles to alleviate tension and promote relaxation. We can often show parents how to do this at home as well.
- Movement Education: Physiotherapists can teach children proper movement techniques to reduce strain on their muscles during activities.
- Heat and Cold Therapies: We provide advice on whether to use heat therapy such as hot packs, deep heat or warm baths vs cold therapy such as cold packs and ice. Each can provide temporary relief from discomfort associated with growing pains when used at the right time.
- Pain Management Strategies: Physiotherapists can educate both child and parents on pain management techniques, such as stretching, breathing exercises and relaxation techniques, to help cope with flare ups of growing pains.
How long do growing pains usually last?
The good news is that growing pains are usually temporary. They tend to come and go and typically last anywhere from a few minutes to a few hours. Rarely will growing pains last longer than a day or two. It’s important to remember that these pains do not indicate a serious underlying issue. If the pains are ongoing and last many days or even weeks, it’s best to get a thorough assessment by a physiotherapist to ensure there is nothing else contributing to the pain.
Where do growing pains hurt the most?
Growing pains commonly occur in the legs, particularly around the muscles in the calves, thighs, and behind the knees. Your child may describe it as aching or throbbing, and it’s usually symmetrical (meaning it occurs in both legs fairly similarly).
What can be mistaken for growing pains?
It’s not uncommon for parents to wonder if there might be something else going on. Conditions like muscle strains, nerve pain and other musculoskeletal injuries can sometimes be mistaken for growing pains. If you’re ever uncertain, it’s always a good idea to consult with a physiotherapist. At Physio Fit, we work with many junior sports and little athletics clubs, so we see this a lot and can definitely help to identify whether your child is suffering from growing pains or an actual injury.
What is mistaken for growing pains and how to differentiate them from muscle strains?
Growing pains can sometimes be mistaken for muscle strains due to their similar presentation of muscle discomfort. However, there are key differences to look for:
- Location of Pain: Growing pains usually occur in the muscles, particularly aching in the calves and thighs. Muscle strains, on the other hand, are often localised to a specific muscle or joint and are described more as a sharper pain (more intense).
- Timing and Recurrence: Growing pains tend to occur in the late afternoon or evening and may happen on multiple occasions over a period of time. Muscle strains are usually the result of a specific injury or overexertion and may occur immediately after the activity. These are usually sore in the mornings as well as throughout the day.
- Response to Rest: Growing pains often improve with rest and gentle stretching. Muscle strains may persist or worsen with continued activity and may require more significant rest and rehabilitation.
- Associated Symptoms: Growing pains are typically not accompanied by swelling, redness, or other signs of inflammation. Muscle strains may present with these symptoms.
Here’s a simplified, yet comprehensive, table that parents can use to differentiate between growing pains and an injury that may require physio attention:
| Criteria | Growing Pains | Potential Injury |
|---|---|---|
| Age Range | Commonly occurs between 3-12 years old | Any age, depending on activity level or trauma |
| Pain Description | Dull, aching pain; described as "sore" | Sharp, intense pain; often localized to a specific spot |
| Location of Pain | Both legs, especially calves, thighs, behind knees | Typically localized to a specific muscle, joint, or area |
| Timing of Pain | Afternoon or evening, often recurring | Can occur anytime, especially after an activity or injury |
| Duration | Usually lasts a few minutes to a few hours, comes and goes | Persistent pain that may last several days or longer |
| Response to Rest | Improves with rest and gentle stretching | May persist or worsen with activity |
| Associated Symptoms | No swelling, redness, or inflammation | May include swelling, redness, or signs of inflammation |
| Activity Trigger | Not directly linked to specific activities | Often related to a specific injury, overexertion, or trauma |
| Morning Pain | Typically no pain in the mornings | Pain may be present or worsen in the morning |
When to see a Physiotherapist?
- If pain is severe, lasts multiple days, or is affecting daily activities
- If you are ever uncertain about whether your child’s discomfort is due to growing pains or a potential injury, consulting with our team of expert physiotherapists is highly recommended so that we can provide you with a proper assessment and guidance.
What helps children with growing pains?
There are several strategies that can offer relief to children experiencing growing pains. As a parent, you can provide gentle massage to the affected muscles, or help soothe the pain by applying a heat pack or encouraging a warm bath/shower.
Should you stretch during growing pains?
Stretching can be a helpful way to relieve some discomfort associated with growing pains. Simple stretches, like those targeting the calf muscles or thighs, can offer pain relief. It’s Important to do these stretches gently and not push beyond a comfortable range of motion.
Remember, communication with your child is key. Encourage them to express how they’re feeling, and reassure them that these growing pains are a normal part of their development. Growing pains are a sign that your child is on the path to healthy growth and development. With a little TLC and understanding, you can help them navigate this phase with ease and comfort. If the pain persists, or if you have any concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team at Physio Fit Adelaide.
