Growing Pains Cause Discomfort for Kids

Foot care is an essential component of health care at any age. We treat patients of all ages, from newborn babies to senior citizens. One of the most common reasons that mothers and fathers bring their children to our office is growing pains. This discomfort seems to the parents to be random and idiopathic, meaning there is no identifiable cause. The discomfort that they refer to as growing pains tends to:

  • occur late in the day or overnight, often even waking children from sleep

  • be felt in the muscles, rather than the joints

  • be particularly observable in the front of the thigh, the calf, or behind the knees

  • occur bilaterally, in both legs

  • disappear by morning with no residual effects

  • increase as activity levels rise

A few of these cases are truly without cause and the doctor will offer treatment to relieve the symptoms. However, in many others, growing pains can actually be attributed to an underlying issue. When that is addressed and resolved, the pains disappear.

  • Typical causes of growing pains include:

  • pes planus (flat feet)

  • tight muscles, especially hip rotators, calf muscles, and hamstrings

  • poor posture

  • abnormal gait

  • sudden increase in activity

  • poor footwear with inadequate support

Depending on what the podiatrist determines is the cause of your child's discomfort, he may recommend treatment options including:

  • over the counter and prescription medications to relieve pain

  • physical therapy to improve strength and flexibility

  • new, more appropriate footwear - including a trip to the shoe store for an up-to-date, professional sizing

  • custom orthotics to provide comfort and support

Are you concerned about growing pains or anything else related to the health and well-being of your son or daughter's feet, ankles, or lower legs? We can help.

Contact Podiatry Group of Annapolis and let us help with all your foot and ankle needs. Dr. James Mckee and Dr. Adam Weaver are experienced and dedicated podiatrists who provide high-quality individualized care. Call us today at 410-224-4448 or visit us online to make an appointment at our conveniently located Annapolis office.

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