Growing Pains

Why it works: Fits the likely mechanism. “Growing pains” are thought to reflect muscle overuse/fatigue and relative tightness when bones outpace muscles; pains are usually in the calves, thighs...

Instructions: A practical, clinician-produced leaflet lays out a simple routine that aligns with the trialled approach (hamstrings, calves, quads) and typical paediatric physio advice:. Frequenc...

Warnings: Growing pains are a diagnosis of exclusion. Seek medical review promptly (stretching is not a substi...

Studies: Randomized trial (children, growing pains). Multiple reviews...

Why it works: Growing pains are thought to reflect muscle fatigue/overuse with otherwise normal exams. NHS guidance describes the pains as non-articular, often after active days, and commonly ea...

Instructions: 1) Gentle massage (5–10 minutes as needed). • With lotion or oil, use light, slow strokes over the calves, behind the knees, shins, and front of the thighs—the areas most often pai...

Warnings: Growing pains are a diagnosis of exclusion; the child otherwise looks well, pain is bilateral, occur...

Studies: Randomized Controlled Trial (stretching):Baxter & Dulber...

Why it works: Massage helps growing pains. Pediatric guidance for benign “growing pains” commonly suggests gentle leg massage (and warmth/stretching) to ease symptoms. This is standard care advi...

Instructions: Confirm it’s “growing pains.” Typical features are bilateral evening/night muscle aches (thighs, calves, behind knees) that resolve by morning, with a normal exam. Seek medical rev...

Warnings: Skin reactions. Lavender oil (especially when oxidized) can cause allergic contact dermatitis; patch...

Studies: Pediatric pain/anxiety contextsDental injection pain/anxiety...