Growing Pains cause children to wake in the night complaining of aching or burning in their thighs, calf muscles, shins or behind their knees. Gentle massage, hugs, and a few words of reassurance generally soothe the pain and the next day the child seems to be fine, managing PE and playground games without any apparent discomfort.

Growing Pains were first described in the early 19th Century, but medical science is still unable to fully explain the exact causes of the discomfort experienced by so many children.

Sometimes the aches are associated with hypermobility, leg muscle tightness or weakness, poor posture or flat feet. A children’s physiotherapist will be able to assess a child and determine whether there is a biomechanical problem contributing to the pain.

Features of growing pains include:

* Age: Whilst growing pains occur at any age, children seem to experience them in two age groups: from 3 to 8 years, and then in early adolescence

* Daily Pattern: Growing pains tend to occur in late afternoon or evening and will occasionally wake a child at night. They are often experienced after a busy active day. Some children get the pains every night, some once a week or so, and others only occasionally.

* Intensity: The pains are generally mild; however, a few children complain of severe pain. The pain can be brief, lasting a few minutes, or it can last for an hour or longer.

* Location: Growing pains affect muscles, and not joints. Most children report that the pain is in front of the thighs, in the calves, or behind the knee. They almost always affect both limbs. Joints affected by other problems can be swollen, red, tender, and warm. The "growing pains" joint looks quite normal.

* Relieving Factors: These pains can generally be eased by massage and the child feels better by being held and cuddled. Children who have pain from other causes often do not like to be touched because movement can increase the pain. Almost always pain-free by next morning

*Other symptoms: The pain may be accompanied by restlessness, but not any signs of inflammation.

What to do next

Kids Physio recommends that you take your child to the doctor if they have any of the following symptoms: joint pain, redness, or swelling; fever or lethargy; pain in the morning; loss of appetite.

If the above symptoms are not present, try applying some gentle warmth (for example a hot water bottle) over the sore muscles, gentle massage can also help. Children can become very anxious about these pains so talk to them and offer reassurance.

A children’s physiotherapist will be able to assess your child and refer them to a doctor if a more serious condition is suspected. Kids Physio will assess your child’s ranges of movement, muscle strength, flexibility and posture and your physiotherapist will provide your child with an activity and exercise programme tailored to their needs.