Growing Pains

Growing pains are deep aches or cramps that usually happen in the shins, calves, thighs, or behind the knees. They mostly affect children ages 3 to 14. The pain usually happens late in the day or at night, and some kids wake up because of it. Growing pains often affect both sides of the body. For some kids, the pain doesn’t stop, but for others, it comes and goes. The pain can last from a few minutes to hours but usually goes away by the next day. Most kids can still do their normal activities.

What Causes Growing Pains?

The exact cause of growing pains is unknown, but there are many ideas. They could occur from too much physical activity or muscle soreness. It might be caused by too much movement in the joints or flat feet. Low vitamin D levels can weaken bones. Stress might also make the pain worse. Growing pains are probably caused by a mix of these things.

How Are Growing Pains Diagnosed?

Doctors diagnose growing pains based on symptoms. A physical exam might show things like hypermobility (loose joints) or flat feet, but everything else will be normal. There are no tests like blood work or scans for growing pains.

How Are Growing Pains Treated?

There is no specific treatment for growing pains, but there are ways to help manage the pain. The pain usually goes away by the time the child is older.

Here are some ways to help:

• Comfort your child during painful episodes.
• Gently massage the affected areas.
• Use over-the-counter pain medications like acetaminophen, ibuprofen, or naproxen.
• Increase physical activity through programs like physical therapy.
• Physical therapy can also help if your child has hypermobility.
• Teach your child ways to cope with pain through counseling or therapy.
• Orthotics (special shoe inserts) can help if your child has flat feet.

Living with Growing Pains

Growing pains are not linked to serious illness. They are not caused by rapid growth or growth spurts. However, if your child has any of these symptoms, talk to your doctor to check for other conditions:

• Constant and increasing pain
• Pain that stays in the same spot
• Morning joint stiffness
• Swelling or redness over the afflicted areas
• Limping

Updated April 2025 by Meredith Hirsh, MBA, and reviewed by the American College of Rheumatology Communications and Marketing Committee.

This patient fact sheet is provided for general education only. Individuals should consult a qualified health care provider for professional medical advice, diagnosis and treatment of a medical or health condition.