Contrary to the name, there is little evidence linking “growing pains” with the actual growth of your child. Our top-rated Arlington VA podiatrist explains that rather than from growing, the pains a child occasionally feels are more likely related to overuse throughout the day. Your child may be likely to experience this pain in their thighs, back of calves, or knees. Still, regardless of where growing pains originate from, the discomfort experienced is real. Our podiatrist in Arlington provides tips to help ease your child’s pain below.
How to Ease Growing Pains, According to Our Arlington VA Podiatrist
Children ranging from preschool age to the early teenage years are likely to experience growing pains at some point. Often the discomfort sets in around the evening time. Your child may even experience being woken up in the night by the pain. Typically, the pain does recede by the morning.
Some research links growing pains to restless leg syndrome. Other studies suggest the cause is the extended amounts of running, jumping, and climbing children partake in. While there is no specific treatment, our podiatrist in Arlington VA invites you to consider these aids.
- Massage your child’s legs
- Use a heating pad to relax your child’s muscles
- Give your child a warm bath before bed
- Try new stretches with your child
If these at-home remedies fail to do the trick, consult your doctor about giving your child an over-the-counter pain reliever. Children's Ibuprofen or Tylenol may be an option, but be sure to ask your doctor for the safe recommended dosage for your child. Our Arlington podiatrist warns to not give your child aspirin, because aspirin has been linked to Reye’s Disease in children, which can be life threatening.
When Is It More Than Growing Pains? Our Arlington VA Podiatrist Answers
Growing pains alone do not always warrant a trip to the doctor. Often, little can be done beyond a routine check-up. Still, our podiatrist in Arlington VA recommends consulting your child’s doctor when the pain is accompanied by some additional symptoms. If your child experiences joint pain, fever, loss of appetite, or any additional symptoms beyond just sore muscles, schedule an appointment to ensure the issue is not something beyond growing pains.
Swelling, redness, abdominal pain, and headaches are also symptoms you should bring up to your doctor. Should you have any additional concerns about growing pains and your child, please feel free to call your doctor or our 5-star podiatry office in Arlington VA to further discuss a plan best suited for your child.
The information provided in this article is not meant to be medical advice and is for educational purposes only. If you would like to learn more about this and other topics related to podiatry, feel free to contact The Podiatry Center, with a convenient podiatry office location near Arlington VA, by clicking here or by calling 301.656.6055.
