Many parents find themselves in a predicament when their young children experience more pain than usual. They may cry at night, and parents often try to soothe them by rubbing their bodies. These pains are commonly referred to as growing pains. It can be heartbreaking for parents to see their children in pain, but as adults, we have witnessed older individuals facing their own challenges and recovering from injuries.
How Common are Growing Pains in Children?
Around 40% of young children experience growing pains to some extent. These pains can vary in intensity and are often difficult for doctors to diagnose accurately. Unfortunately, it is not uncommon to encounter unsympathetic healthcare professionals when seeking help for this issue. The main challenge lies in the fact that young children may struggle to effectively communicate and describe the sensations they are experiencing. Growing pains typically occur during two specific periods in a child’s life. The first period is in early childhood, typically between the ages of 3 and 5. The second period occurs during the later years, from 8 to 13 years old. Interestingly, growing pains can affect even the healthiest children and tend to occur predominantly at night.
Understanding the Sensations Experienced by Children During Growing Pains
When children experience growing pains, they often endure intense cramps and discomfort that typically impact both legs in a symmetrical manner, although not always simultaneously. Although the calves are commonly affected, it is also possible for the pain to manifest in the legs, shins, thighs, joints, and ankles. Consequently, children may develop a limp or find it challenging to walk during these episodes.