Growing pains are recurring aching pains in both legs, usually in the evening or at night, in otherwise healthy young children. Despite the name, they are not clearly linked to growth spurts, and the cause is unknown. They are harmless, but because other conditions can cause leg pain, it is important to know which signs need a doctor.
Also known as benign limb pain of childhood, benign nocturnal limb pains, recurrent limb pain of childhood
Symptoms
- Aching or cramping in both legs, often the calves, shins, thighs or behind the knees
- Pain late in the day or at night, sometimes waking the child
- Child is well and active the next morning with no limp
- No swelling, redness or tenderness over a joint
- Pain that comes and goes over weeks or months
Causes and risk factors
- The exact cause is unknown
- Lower pain thresholds have been reported in affected children
- A family history is common
- Joint hypermobility and flat feet have been suggested as contributors
- Busy, active days can be followed by evening pain
What the evidence says helps
- When the history is typical and examination is normal, guidance suggests blood tests and X-rays are usually not needed, and reassurance about the harmless nature of the pains is a key part of care.14
- Gentle massage of the legs and simple over-the-counter pain relief are the usual symptomatic measures. In one study, massage eased the pain in almost all children.15
- Researchers have found poor agreement on how growing pains are defined, so a careful check by a clinician to rule out other causes is important.2
- Pain on one side only, morning stiffness, joint swelling, a limp, or general illness such as fever and weight loss should prompt further medical assessment.4
Things you can try at home
- Gently massage the aching legs at bedtime
- Try a warm bath or warm (not hot) wheat bag
- Use children's paracetamol or ibuprofen as directed on the pack if needed
- Gentle calf and thigh stretches before bed
- Reassure your child – the pains are not harmful and do not damage the legs
When to get urgent help
Contact your GP urgently, call NHS 111, or call 999 in an emergency if you have:
- Pain with fever, or your child seems unwell – see a GP the same day or call NHS 111; call 999 if they are very unwell
- A new limp, refusing to walk or weight-bear – see a GP urgently the same day
- Pain in only one leg, or always in the same place – see a GP
- A hot, swollen or red joint, or morning stiffness – see a GP promptly
- Unexplained weight loss, night sweats, unusual bruising, tiredness or paleness – see a GP urgently
- Pain during the day that stops normal activities, or that keeps getting worse
How Apollo can help
For children with recurring leg aches, our paediatric osteopath can take a careful history and examination, look for features that need a GP opinion, and explain the findings to families. Where pains fit the typical pattern, we can offer advice on massage, stretching and activity. Any red flags are referred straight back to the GP.
No GP referral needed. Clinics in Sheringham, Coltishall and Norwich.
Related reading
Frequently asked questions
Are growing pains caused by growing?
Probably not. Studies have not found a link with periods of rapid growth, and the cause remains unclear. The name has simply stuck.
When should I worry about my child's leg pain?
See a GP if the pain is in one leg only, causes a limp, is present in the morning or during the day, or comes with fever, swelling, weight loss or your child seeming unwell.
How long do growing pains last?
They tend to come and go over months or a few years and usually stop by the teenage years. They do not cause long-term harm.
References
- Lehman PJ, Carl RL (2017). Growing pains: when to be concerned. Sports Health. View source
- O'Keeffe M, et al. (2022). Defining growing pains: a scoping review. Pediatrics. View source
- Hestbæk L, et al. (2024). Growing pains in Danish preschool children: a descriptive study. Scientific Reports. View source
- Lowe RM, Hashkes PJ (2008). Growing pains: a noninflammatory pain syndrome of early childhood. Nature Clinical Practice Rheumatology. View source
- Pavone V, et al. (2011). Growing pains: a study of 30 cases and a review of the literature. Journal of Pediatric Orthopaedics. View source
This page is general information, not a diagnosis or a substitute for medical advice. If you are worried about your symptoms, speak to your GP or a registered healthcare professional. Content prepared from the sources above, November 2026.
