What exactly are growing pains?

While it is uncommon for children to have persistent aches and pains related to their muscles and joints, there are times when a child’s rate of growth can put uncomfortable stress on certain areas. Typically felt in the knees and ankles, this experience is known as “growing pains”.  

When children grow, there is lengthening of bone, which occurs at an area called the growth plate. In turn, a child’s muscles and the tendons that attach their muscles to the bone also have to stretch and lengthen. Sometimes the rate of bone growth occurs faster than the muscles and tendons can adjust, which can cause irritation or inflammation of the area where the tendon attaches to the bone.

When this occurs, there are two common areas for a child to describe pain: 

• Below the knee where the quadriceps muscle is attached to the tibia (shin bone) by the patellar tendon. This is a condition termed Osgood Schlatter’s disease.

• At the back of the heel (calcaneus) where the calf muscle is attached to the heel by the Achilles tendon. This is known as Sever’s disease.

Despite the names, neither condition is a serious illness, but rather a sign of a growing body. When these conditions are present, activities such as running, jumping, squatting, and pivoting may become painful when done for a prolonged period. 

Relieving the symptoms of growing pains

You can help your kids limit the symptoms of pain that they’re experiencing.

• Rest when pain is present – avoid activities that cause pain, but continue to participate in those that do not create symptoms. Often, lower impact activities such as swimming and cycling will be less painful.
   
• Ice painful areas – this will reduce the pain and swelling associated with inflammation.
   
• In the case of knee pain, perform stretching exercises for the quadriceps muscle. 
   
• In the case of heel pain, perform stretching exercises for the calf muscle.

Because these areas can become painful during stages of growth, it is common to see episodes of pain come and go over time. It’s also very likely that these symptoms will settle as the child’s muscle flexibility adjusts to the rate of bone growth. 

With that said, following these guidelines will help manage symptoms during painful periods of time. If pain and swelling persists for a long duration, it is always advisable to seek guidance from a healthcare professional for assessment and treatment specific to the needs of your child.

If you'd like an assessment or need more information about growing pains, schedule an appointment through Virtual Care or in-person services by contacting a Lifemark clinic near you or book an appointment online.