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Growing Pains: How to Help Your Kids Deal

By Genevieve Cunningham

If you have kids, you’re probably familiar with growing pains. Some people have growing pains that are so severe, they remember them into adulthood. As a parent, there’s nothing worse than your little one crying with pain in the night. Unfortunately, growing pains are a complicated issue. If you have kids suffering from growing pains and you want to help, take a look at this important guide.

What Are Growing Pains?

Doctors aren’t exactly sure what causes growing pains. Speculation is that the rapid pace at which children grow causes pain in various tendons and ligaments in the body, as the tendons don’t grow quite as quickly as the rest of the body. The pain is often a throbbing or an aching sensation, and they usually come at night.

Where Are They Felt?

For most kids, growing pains are felt in the legs or arms. The most common places are the backs of the legs (calves, backs of the knees, and backs of the thighs), or the forearms. The pain might rotate locations, but is usually felt on both sides of the body. Some kids may feel a similar sensation in the feet, though this is much less common.

When to See a Doctor

There are times when growing pains could indicate a more serious problem. If your child seems to have the pains all day long instead of mostly at night, it’s likely something other than growing pains. You should also consult a doctor if your child’s pain is excruciating. Though they may complain of pain, it shouldn’t cause excessive crying or screaming. Pain that is always in the same location may also indicate a more serious problem. Of course, anytime that you think your child should be seen by a doctor, don’t hesitate to take them in. You know your child best and are best equipped to make the decision.

How to Find Relief

If your child is truly suffering from growing pains, a light massage may be enough to work out the discomfort. For most kids, this eases the pain and allows them to fall back asleep. If massage doesn’t work, a heating pad may do the trick. Keep in mind that, though poorly understood, growing pains can be normal. Keep an eye on your child, and seek care when necessary to keep them well.

To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Charleston, S.C.

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