What Can You Do About It?

Treatment Options for Growing Pains

Because growing pains are temporary, and there is no known underlying cause, there is no specific treatment for them. These pains will usually improve and resolve over a period of one or two years, and as time goes on, the pain will normally become less intense. It can be a difficult period for the child and the parent, especially if the child is woken during the night due to the pain.

• Massage – gently rubbing or massaging your child’s legs in the evening can help to loosen the muscles. This can help to prevent that intense cramping feeling caused by growing pains. It also is a form of relaxation, which may help your child not be anxious that the pains are going to occur once they go to bed.
• Stretching – encouraging your child to do stretching exercises during the day may help prevent the pain from occurring at night. Similar to massage, stretching loosens and softens the muscles.
• Heat – it is a good idea to invest in a heating pad or heat bag. Placing the pad on the child’s legs before bedtime can help to soothe the muscles, especially if pain is already present. It is a good remedy to try during the night also when the child wakes up in pain. They can be set on a low heat, so there is no risk of injury.
• Baths – a nice warm bath before bed not only relaxes your child, but soothes and softens the muscles.
• Pain relief – you should check with your doctor first, but giving your child ibuprofen before bed can help prevent the pain. Giving pain relief to children can cause other problems, so you must seek advice beforehand. If your child wakes during the night, and the pain is intense, you could also give them an analgesic to help relieve the pain.
• Shoes – it is possible that growing pains could be the result of physical activity, and making sure your child has suitable shoes that support their feet can make a huge difference in whether or not they develop growing pains.

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Fact or Fiction?

The mystery is what actually causes it. Maybe one day they’ll discover a true underlying medical condition, but in the meantime, if your child is showing these symptoms, have a chat with your doctor to rule out any other cause.