Priya Singh Priya Singh Asked 8 months ago

What does growing pain feel like?

My 6-year-old son often wakes up at night crying about leg pain, and my mother-in-law says it's just 'growing pains'. What exactly does growing pain feel like in children, and how can I tell if it's something else?

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6 answers

Nalini Sen Nalini Sen Joined May 2026 5 months ago
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Growing pains usually feel like a dull, throbbing ache in both legs, especially in the calves or shins. They typically happen in the late afternoon or evening and usually go away by the morning. Gently massaging the legs can bring a lot of comfort.

Meera Sen Meera Sen Joined Mar 2026 7 months ago

With a busy work schedule, managing kids' nighttime leg pains can be tough. These pains feel like deep muscular aches, not joint pain, and are quite common in active children. If the pain persists during the day or causes limping, save time and consult a pediatrician immediately.

Priyanka Fernandez Priyanka Fernandez Joined May 2026 5 months ago

We initially ignored our child's leg pain thinking it was just normal growing pain, but it turned out to be a bone infection that required serious treatment. True growing pains do not cause limping or swelling. If there is any fever, swelling, or localized pain, please see a doctor immediately.

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Consult a internal medicine specialist

Rahul Verma Rahul Verma Joined Mar 2026 7 months ago

I remember getting these a lot when I was a kid after playing football all day. It's just a deep, annoying ache in the shins that keeps you awake at night. A simple warm water bag and a good massage from my mom always sorted it out.

Amit Patel Amit Patel Joined Mar 2026 7 months ago

Look, growing pains are very common in children between 3 and 12 years. It is a dull, muscular ache in both legs that comes and goes, but it should never make them limp or cry during the day. If it is affecting their daily activities, stop guessing and take them to a doctor.

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Sanjay Bhatnagar Sanjay Bhatnagar Joined Apr 2026 6 months ago

My kids complain about leg aches after doing absolutely nothing all day! It is usually just mild, muscular throbbing that happens at bedtime. A bit of muscle rub and some rest fixes it, but if they start acting like it is a major medical crisis, a quick visit to the doc is best.

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