Growing pains in children

Growing pains in children

So, what are growing pains in kids? The term ‘growing pain’ refers to harmless, recurrent muscular pain that is common in children. You may see growing pains in toddlers, particularly those aged 3-5 years, or in older children especially between 8-11 years old, with some lasting into the teenage years.^†

They’re often felt in the legs and can be worse in the afternoon or evenings, sometimes even waking a child from their sleep.¹ But while they can be very painful, there is no actual damage happening to your child’s bones or muscles, and the pain shouldn’t cause a limp or make it hard to run or play normally.

†_{Better Health Channel (Department of Health, State Government of Victoria, Australia). Growing pains. Available here.}

What do ‘growing pains’ feel like?

If your child complains of achy pains in the muscles of their legs, they might be experiencing growing pains symptoms. This can include:

If you are concerned in any way, see your doctor. You should also see your doctor if:

• Your child is limping
• They complain of pain during the day
• The pain only affects one leg(or arm)
• Their pain is severe
• They are unwell (e.g., fever, loss of appetite or rashes)
• Their leg is sore to touch, or has swelling, reddening or tenderness

Causes of growing pains

While many parents may think that growing pains are caused by the growth of bones, the cause is actually unknown and bone growth hasn’t been proven to cause the pain. Some reasons that may contribute to children’s growing pain symptoms include:

Can growing pains cause fever? Growing pain should not make your child feel unwell or affect the way they walk. So, if your child feels unwell and/or has a fever, or they are limping, you should see a doctor.

Other common aches and pains in children: Bumps and bruises

Children often injure themselves while playing, like falling over while playing sport or bumping into something. If you see swelling or discolouration, it might be a bump or a bruise.

Bumps can appear following a knock or fall. Bruises occur if the blood vessel under your child’s skin is damaged, forming a purple or red mark as blood comes out of the vessels.

Bumps and bruises are common injuries that everyone will experience from time to time. Occasionally though, your child’s bump or bruise may be a more serious injury. Seek medical attention if you are concerned about your child’s injury for any reason, or if:

● Your child has intense pain
● They can’t move the injured body part, or it doesn’t work properly
● The injury is swelling and bruising very quickly

If necessary, you can also use an appropriate pain reliever containing ibuprofen, like Nurofen for Children.

Why ibuprofen can help

Ibuprofen reduces both inflammation and mild-to-moderate pain. It can help make growing pain symptoms in children less severe and help them feel more comfortable. Ibuprofen can relieve muscular aches and pains, including pain from injuries.

Why Nurofen for Children can help your child

Nurofen for Children contains ibuprofen. It comes in a variety of formulations and can be used in children from 3 months to 12 years. Nurofen for Children liquid suspensions are sugar-free and colour-free and can be taken without food. For older kids, Nurofen for Children also comes as a soft chewable capsule suitable for children 7 years and older – they are easy to chew and don’t need to be taken with water, making them a convenient option.

This article is for general information only and not intended as a substitute for medical advice. All information presented on these web pages is not meant to diagnose or prescribe. In all health-related matters, always consult your healthcare professional.