Many children and adolescents occasionally awaken with intense pain in their knees, calves, thighs or shins that may last up to ten or fifteen minutes. Often the pain occurs in both legs. Usually the pain will subside quickly and typically the pain has not occurred during the previous day. There is usually no history of injury and the pains do not recur during the following daytime hours. Although called “growing pains,” this discomfort is not related to growth.
Who is likely to develop “growing pains”?
Many children and some adolescents are susceptible to this type of discomfort. There is no specific gender or racial preference. It is not usually seen in adults, so the term “growing pains” refers to this type of discomfort in children and adolescents who are still undergoing growth and development.
What are the symptoms of “growing pains”?
The adolescent will awaken with discomfort, cramps and aches in his or her legs, calves or feet. There are no signs of swelling, redness or increased warmth that would suggest arthritis. The pain subsides quickly with massage and a simple analgesic medication such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen may be helpful. The symptoms of “growing pains” do not occur during the daytime hours. There is usually a history of the adolescent being physically active during the previous day.
Strained muscles, which are not growing pains, will give pain during the night and day. There usually will be a history of injury or overuse.
How are “growing pains” evaluated?
Growing pains are a benign condition. It is worthwhile mentioning the occurrence of growing pains to a clinician. While the condition itself is harmless, other conditions could cause some of the symptoms seen in growing pains. For example, arthritis, shin splints or a stress fracture could present with leg pains. An experienced clinician after a thorough history and physical examination is able to determine if the “growing pains” are benign or if an evaluation is needed to rule out other conditions. The evaluation could entail blood tests, x-rays and scans.
How are “growing pains” treated?
Beside simple analgesics and reassurance, there are a few measures the adolescent can take when he or she has growing pains. If the pain is in the calf, then the foot and toes can be pulled upward as far as possible to break the spasm. Massaging the painful muscle will be helpful.
How are “growing pains” prevented?
Some feel that daily stretching exercises can prevent growing pains in the calves. This can be performed by leaning forward at the ankles with the knees straight. This exercise stretches the heel cords and may help to prevent painful calves during the nighttime.
Related topics:
Athletic injuries, bone disorders, exercise, foot injuries, growth and development, sleep, stress fractures
