The exact reason why growth causes pain, often referred to as "growing pains," is unclear.
Understanding Growing Pains
It's a common misconception that the pain children experience during growth spurts is directly caused by the bones themselves growing. However, medical professionals have found that this isn't the case:
- Bones grow slowly: Even during growth spurts, bone growth is a gradual process. This slow development is not the cause of pain.
- The cause is unknown: While we understand the pain is associated with growth, the underlying mechanism that triggers "growing pains" is not fully understood.
What are the symptoms?
Growing pains typically manifest in certain ways:
- Location of Pain: Most commonly felt in the legs, particularly in the thighs, calves, or behind the knees.
- Timing of Pain: The pain usually occurs in the late afternoon or evening, and it may even wake a child up at night. It usually eases up in the mornings.
- Characteristics of Pain: The pain is usually described as throbbing, aching, or cramping.
- Absence of other Symptoms: Typically, there are no other symptoms like swelling, redness, or tenderness in the affected area.
Duration and Resolution
- Varying Length: Some children may have growing pains off and on for many years.
- Resolution: The pains usually disappear by mid-adolescence.
Misconceptions
| Misconception | Reality |
|---|---|
| Pain is caused by bone growth. | Bones grow gradually; this is not the cause of growing pains. |
| All children have growing pains. | Only some children experience growing pains. |
What can you do?
Though the pain can be frustrating for both children and parents, there are some things that might help:
- Massage: Gently massaging the affected area might provide relief.
- Heat application: A warm bath or heating pad may also help soothe the pain.
- Stretching exercises: Gentle stretches might help relieve discomfort.
- Over-the-counter pain relief: Acetaminophen or ibuprofen can be used as directed if needed.
- Reassurance: Understanding that this is a normal part of growth and typically resolves on its own can help reduce anxiety.
When to See a Doctor
It is important to consult a doctor if:
- The pain is accompanied by swelling, redness, or tenderness.
- The pain is persistent or severe and does not respond to simple remedies.
- The child is experiencing any other symptoms like fever or loss of appetite.
In conclusion, despite being commonly called "growing pains," the direct cause of this discomfort is not from the bones growing themselves. The exact origins remain a mystery, but the pain is a benign condition that typically resolves on its own.
