Osteopathy and Growing Pains

Why are my child’s legs aching at night?

Usually occurring later in the day or at night, and sometimes enough to wake your child, growing pains describe a pattern of pain or discomfort in the legs. 80-90% of the time it is both legs, generally felt more in the muscles (often calf or thigh muscles) rather than bones or joints, and for most children it comes and goes.

As the cause is still unclear and requires further research, it is also known as Benign Nocturnal Limb Pain (BNLP), occurring in about 10-20% of healthy primary school and preschool aged children. Although the symptoms were labelled ‘growing pains’ in the 1930s to 1940’s, there is no clear explanation or evidence that growth causes the pain. It may occur after vigorous physical activity (but this is not always the case), however with no signs of swelling, redness, tenderness or limping, and by morning your child is well without any stiffness.

How does it feel?

Each child can have a different experience, where it may be a deep cramping or aching, from mild to severe. There can be days or months in between episodes or for some, be a daily occurrence. Although the pain or discomfort generally only lasts 10-30 minutes and is gone by morning, it may be distressing for your child.

What to look for:

It is important your child is taken to see their GP if you think there may be a more serious issue, and to confirm it is growing pains. This may include ruling out other issues including an assessment for any signs of growth associated injuries.

Seek medical care if any of the following is occurring:

– only one side of their body is in pain

– your child wakes up with the pain or stiffness in the morning

– not letting you touch the painful area

– the area is hot, red or swollen and does not get better within 24 hours

– your child is limping

– severe pain, a lump in the muscle

– fever

An assessment for other conditions may occur depending on the timing and location of the pain. Ruling out certain growth associated injuries with a physical examination is also important.

What can help?

Although there is no specific treatment for growing pains, the following strategies may provide some relief:

-comfort your child

-gently massage the painful area

-use a heat pack

-stretching the muscles in the area

-a warm a bath/shower before bed

-occasionally your doctor or pharmacist may suggest anti-inflammatory medication.

Physical activities can continue, and it may be helpful to encourage a variety of different sports and activities that allow different muscles in the body to be used in different ways.

If your child has very flexible joints (hyper mobility), a strengthening program with physical therapy may help (for example with an osteopath or physiotherapist), and a podiatrist may suggest shoe inserts if your child has flat feet.

How long can it last?

Growing pains usually resolve within a couple of years or by adolescence. Although they generally get better over time and don’t directly lead to other health conditions, if the pain occurs frequently, it may be helpful to discuss the best ways to manage the issue with your healthcare provider.

Keep in mind this is not a definitive list, but general information and please seek medical care if you have any concerns about your child’s health.

Valued Health Osteopathy’s practitioners do not ever perform any manipulation (defined as ‘cracking’ or forceful joint movement) on infants or children. Simple body positioning, stretching and gentle massage may be included by the Osteopath if appropriate. Pressure used would be no more than what is required whilst changing, dressing or holding an infant with the aim of keeping them calm and comfortable throughout. Our Osteopaths also recommend play-based exercises for caregivers to assist with management of conditions seen at Valued Health Osteopathy.

Julia has completed extensive postgraduate study in order to provide Osteopathic care to children and infants. Her additional postgraduate studies include Osteopathic Obstetric care, Paediatric considerations and pre & post natal pilates.

Make an appointment today – Book online!

(03) 9570 9061

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You do not need a referral to see one of our friendly Osteopaths at Valued Health Osteopathy. We have a very good relationship with many surrounding doctors, other health practitioners and personal trainers in the local community of Bentleigh East , Bentleigh, Ormond, McKinnon, Oakleigh, Carnegie, Caulfield, Moorabbin, Murrumbeena, Brighton, Clayton and Clarinda.

Valued Health Osteopathy offers Osteopathy, Clinical Pilates, Massage Therapy, Exercise Rehabilitation and Strength & Conditioning. Valued Health Osteopathy is open 6 days a week with early morning and evening appointments. Move better with Osteopathy!

Valued Health Osteopathy is located at 3/658 Centre Road, Bentleigh East, Melbourne, Victoria, 3165.

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