Child Growing Pains: What Are They and How You Can Help

Have you ever experienced a child going through growing pains? It's tough. Even tougher is the helpless feeling that there is nothing you can do. Good news -you can!
First we'll dig into what is likely going on and then some ways you may be able to help manage their pain and discomfort.

Growing pains are often characterized by aching or throbbing sensations in the legs, usually in the late afternoon or evening. The exact cause of growing pains is not definitively known, but several factors are believed to contribute.

Muscular Overuse:

• Increased physical activity during the day can lead to muscle fatigue and soreness, Children who are highly active or participate in sports may experience growing pains due to overworked muscles.

Bone Growth:

• Although the term "growing pains" suggests a link to bone growth, there is no direct evidence that growth spurts cause pain. However, rapid bone growth may contribute to muscle tightness and discomfort as the muscles, tendons, and ligaments stretch and adapt.

Poor Posture:

• Poor posture or inadequate alignment during activities can place additional strain on muscles and joints, leading to pain and discomfort. 

Psychological Factors:

• Stress and anxiety can sometimes manifest as physical symptoms, including muscle pain. Emotional factors may exacerbate the perception of pain. 

Vitamin Deficiencies:

• Although less common, deficiencies in certain vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin D, calcium, and magnesium can contribute to muscle cramps and discomfort.

Now that we have an idea of why the pain is there, how do we manage it? It will look different for every family and may include limiting strenuous activities, correcting poor posture, reducing stressful situations, taking a multivitamin and incorporating massage. Below I have listed some simple, yet effective massage techniques to use.

Gentle Effleurage:

• Use light, sweeping strokes with the palms of your hands to warm up the muscles. This technique helps increase blood circulation and relax the muscles. Begin at the ankle and move upward toward the thigh, using long, gentle strokes. Repeat several times, ensuring the pressure is soothing and not too intense.

Kneading (Petrissage):

• Gently knead the muscles using your fingers and thumbs in a rolling motion. This helps to release tension and improve muscle flexibility. Focus on the calf and thigh muscles, gently lifting and squeezing the muscle tissue as you move along the leg.

Compression:

• Apply gentle, rhythmic pressure to the muscles using the heel of your hand or your fingertips. Press down and hold for a few seconds before releasing. Move along the length of the leg, applying this technique to the calves and thighs. Compression helps to relieve muscle tension and promote relaxation.

Circular Friction:

• Use your fingertips to make small, circular motions on areas where the child feels discomfort. This technique can help to increase blood flow and break up muscle knots. Apply light to moderate pressure and focus on one area at a time, such as the calves or thighs.

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Passive Stretching:

• After the massage, gently stretch the child’s muscles to help alleviate tightness and improve flexibility. For example, carefully flex and extend the child's ankle or gently stretch the calf by pressing the foot upward. Ensure the stretches are gentle and within the child's comfort range to avoid causing pain.​

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Additional Tips:

• Warm Compress: Apply a warm compress to the affected areas before massaging to help relax the muscles and enhance the effectiveness of the massage.
• Comfortable Environment: Ensure the child is in a comfortable and relaxed environment. Use a soft blanket or pillow to support their body during the massage.
• Communication: Continuously check in with the child to ensure the pressure is comfortable and the massage is not causing any discomfort.
• Soothing Oils: Use a child-friendly massage oil or lotion to reduce friction and make the massage more soothing. Lavender oil, in particular, has calming properties that can enhance relaxation.

By using these techniques, you can help alleviate the discomfort associated with growing pains and provide a calming, therapeutic experience for the child.​ Growing pains are generally benign and typically resolve on their own as the child grows.

I also treat children in my office for massage and parents are encouraged to be present during the session. I would be happy to give pointers on how to properly perform techniques and also have other resources available that may be beneficial. If you have any questions or would like to schedule an appointment, please feel free to reach out or leave a comment below. 

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