Leg pain is a common complaint among children—but as a parent, how do you know when it’s just growing pains and when it could be something more serious?
Understanding Growing Pains
Growing pains usually occur in children aged 3 to 12 and:
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Typically happen at night
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Are felt in both legs, often in the calves or thighs
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Don’t affect your child’s ability to walk or play during the day
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Respond well to massage or warm compresses
These are generally harmless and a normal part of development.
When Leg Pain May Be a Sign of a Medical Condition
You should consult a pediatric orthopedic specialist if:
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The pain is persistent and occurs during the day
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It affects only one leg
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There is visible swelling, redness, or warmth
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Your child is limping or avoiding walking
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The pain follows a fall or injury
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Your child wakes up crying in pain regularly
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There’s fever or unexplained weight loss
These signs may point to issues such as:
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Bone or joint infections
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Juvenile arthritis
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Flatfoot or limb length discrepancy
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Slipped capital femoral epiphysis (SCFE)
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Fractures or stress injuries
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Tumors (very rare but serious)
What Should You Do?
If you’re unsure, it’s always better to err on the side of caution. Early diagnosis and intervention can prevent long-term problems.
Why Choose Child OrthoCare?
At Child OrthoCare, we specialize in evaluating children’s bone and joint health with a gentle, parent-friendly approach. Dr. Nargesh Agarwal brings years of experience in distinguishing between benign conditions like growing pains and more serious orthopedic concerns.
We aim to give you peace of mind while ensuring your child gets the care they truly need.
