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Information for Parents

Information for Parents

Understanding your child's orthopaedic condition can be overwhelming. Our Information Sheets for Parents provide clear, reliable, and expert-reviewed guidance on a wide range of paediatric orthopaedic conditions, treatments, and recovery processes.

These resources are designed to help you:

  • Learn about common conditions and their management
  • Understand treatment options and what to expect
  • Support your child’s recovery and rehabilitation

Explore our library of easy-to-read information sheets to feel more informed and confident in your child’s care.

Information Sheets

Click on the tiles below to read more information about each condition, and to download a printable PDF information sheet.

Growing Pains
16/04/2025

Growing Pains

What are growing pains?

‘Growing pains’ is a common term for aches that occur in children, though they are not directly caused by growing.

These pains usually appear in the legs (thighs, calves, behind the knees, or shins), and are not a sign of injury or illness. They are common and usually go away on their own.

Growing pains are harmless and very frequent. About 1 in 4 children experiences them. They usually appear between ages 3 and 12, and are slightly more common in girls. 

How does it present?

  • Pain in one or both heels, especially after activity.
  • Pain is often described as sharp, throbbing, or cramp-like. 
  • Usually appears in both legs, sometimes also in the arms.
  • Tends to occur in the evening or at night.
  • Can wake the child from sleep.
  • No signs of swelling, redness, or fever.
  • Symptoms may appear after intense activity or a long day of walking/running.
  • Children feel fine during the day and can walk and play normally.
  • They may return from time to time, over months or even years.

How is it treated?

Growing pains do not need medication or special tests. They usually go away with time.
To relieve discomfort:

  • Gently massage your child’s legs if they are sore.
  • Use a warm (not hot) compress or heating pad.
  • Stretching exercises can help.

Children do not need to stop activities or sports, they can continue their normal life.

Additional information 

  • The diagnosis is clinical. Tests or X-rays are usually not needed, unless symptoms are atypical.
  • Symptoms often go away on their own, although they may recur.
  • Growing pains do not lead to joint problems or long-term issues.

Consult your doctor if your child…

  • Has persistent or intense pain.
  • Shows redness, swelling, or fever.
  • Has pain in only one leg or joint.
  • Loses appetite, energy, or starts limping.
  • Has difficulty walking or pain during the day.

Download the information sheet for growing pains

Click on the image below to download the printable information sheet for growing pains.