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What causes growing pains?

It is not clear what causes growing pains. They are not, as the name mistakenly suggests, caused by growth.

FAQ Frequently asked questions

What are growing pains?

Growing pains are a form of recurring limb pain experienced by children. Their cause is not known.

What are the characteristics of growing pains?

Growing pains appear in children aged 3 to 14 years of age, less commonly in later teen years. They usually affect the legs (thighs, calves and the backs of the knees) but can appear in the arms, shoulders and back as well. They are most …

Who gets growing pains?

Children between the ages of 3 to 14 are the most affected by growing pains.

How are growing pains diagnosed?

Your doctor will diagnose growing pains by excluding other possible causes of limb pain.

How are growing pains treated?

There is no effective treatment or cure for growing pains. Leg massages and heat packs can help with the pain. Pain-relief medications such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen can be used.

Will growing pains clear on their own?

Growing pains resolve after a year or two.

What can be done at home to treat growing pains?

Leg massages and applying warmth can provide some relief from growing pains. Comfort and reassure your child if they are feeling anxious or frightened.

Can growing pains be prevented?

Growing pains cannot be prevented.

Will growing pains keep coming back?

Most children experience an attack of growing pains intermittently every few days, weeks or even months. After a year or two, the attacks gradually stop.

Are growing pains serious?

Growing pains can be painful and frightening, but they are not a sign of any serious problem.

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About this article

Author: Dr Idan Ben-Barak PhD, MSc, BSc (Med)
First answered: 16 Jul 2015
Last reviewed: 14 May 2019
Rating: 4.9 out of 5
Votes: 1270 (Click smiley face below to rate)
Category: Spinal stenosis

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