It’s not unusual for children to complain of aches in their legs — especially at night. These are often dismissed as “growing pains,” a common and usually harmless part of childhood. But sometimes, persistent or severe pain can point to something more serious.
So how can you tell the difference between normal growing pains and a real orthopedic issue?
What Are Growing Pains?
Growing pains are common in children between ages 3 and 12. They typically:
- Occur in the legs (thighs, calves, or behind the knees)
- Appear in the evening or at night
- Do not cause swelling, redness, or limping
- Improve with gentle massage or stretching
- Do not affect physical activity during the day
If this sounds familiar, chances are your child is simply experiencing typical growing pains — especially during growth spurts.
When to Worry: Signs It Could Be More Than Growing Pains
If your child’s bone pain is accompanied by any of the following, it’s time to consult a pediatric orthopedic specialist:
- Pain that is constant, severe, or localized
- Pain that occurs during the day and affects play or walking
- Swelling, redness, or tenderness in one area
- Limping or refusal to bear weight on one leg
- Pain in joints or bones following an injury
- Fever, fatigue, or unexplained weight loss
These could be signs of conditions like:
- Juvenile arthritis
- Vitamin D deficiency or rickets
- Bone infections (osteomyelitis)
- Benign or rare bone tumors
- Biomechanical abnormalities or alignment issues
What to Expect During an Evaluation
At Child OrthoCare, we begin with a gentle, thorough physical examination and medical history. If needed, we may recommend:
- Blood tests
- X-rays or imaging
- Nutritional assessments
- Gait and posture analysis
The goal is to find the root cause of the pain and guide the best course of treatment — whether it’s observation, supplements, physiotherapy, or medical management.
Bone Pain Isn’t Always Just Growing Pains — Let’s Be Sure
Children may not always express discomfort clearly. That’s why it’s important to listen closely and seek timely help when something doesn’t seem right.
Concerned about your child’s bone pain?
Book an Appointment with Dr. Nargesh Agrawal today and ensure your child’s growth is healthy, safe, and pain-free.
