Book 10, Question 11
Why Do Some Kids Get Grow Pains?
Some kids get achy legs at night when their bodies are growing, and people call these grow pains! They are common, and doctors say they are usually harmless. If a pain is strong, stays in one spot, or worries you, tell a grown-up so a doctor can check.
More fun facts
- Growing pains are aches in the legs that usually start when kids are between 3 and 12 years old.
- Growing pains often show up in the late afternoon or evening, and sometimes they wake a child up at night.
- Despite the name, the pain is not worse during growth spurts and is not near the parts of bones that grow.
- Doctors do not know what causes growing pains, but they may just be aches from a day of running, climbing and jumping.
- Growing pains are more common in active children and can come after playing a lot of sport.
- They can come and go for months or even years, but they are usually gone by morning.
Sources: KidsHealth (Nemours), NHS
Questions kids ask
What helps growing pains feel better?
A gentle leg massage or a covered warm heat pack often helps. If pain lasts into the morning or makes walking hard, see a doctor.