Growing pains (GP) are a common complaint among children usually seen in between 3 & 12 years of age.
The estimated prevalence of growing pain ranges from 2%to 49.9%. Growing pains occurs in 10–20% of school age children. The peak age range is in between 3 and 8 years.
Symptoms:- Children with growing pains are often described as aching or throbbing sensations in the muscles, most commonly in legs, not always localized to the joint. Pains tend to worsen in the evenings or nights and may follow a vigorous physical activity. 80–90% of patients have bilateral lower limb pains.
Cause:- The exact cause of growing pain is unknown, but they are not caused by rapid growth or change in bone length. Joint hyper mobility and growing pain in school children, have a strong correlation.
Diagnosis:there is no specific test to diagnosis growing pain. medical history &physical examination is sufficient for diagnosis.
Treatment:- They are typically self-limited & will go away on their own. During bouts of pain, firm massaging and application of heat may comfort the child, paracetamol or brufen might be useful during episodes of pain Management. reassurance, explanation and advice on relief of symptoms for the child is sufficient(once diagnosis is made by pediatrician )
We should look for other cause if there is associated symptoms like Fever, Weight loss,Limp, Inability to bear weight, Regression of gross motor milestones, Nocturnal pain which awakens the child, Bony pain/tenderness.So GP are a common occurrence in children & are not a cause for concern. if any associated above symptoms it is important to seek medical help for further evolution.
Growing Pain # Children