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Growing Pains & Leg Pain in Children: Assessment & Care in West Auckland

Supportive podiatry assessment to understand leg pain in growing children and guide healthy movement.

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What are Growing Pains in Children?

What are Growing Pains in Children?

Growing pains describe episodes of leg discomfort that commonly occur in children, usually between the ages of 3 and 12. The pain often affects the calves, shins, thighs, or knees and is most noticeable in the evening or at night.

Despite the name, growing pains are not caused directly by growth itself. They are thought to be linked to muscle fatigue, activity levels, and how a child’s legs absorb load during movement.

In some children, leg pain may also be related to specific conditions such as Osgood–Schlatter knee pain, particularly in active adolescents during growth spurts.

At Norwest Podiatry, we assess leg pain carefully to determine whether it fits the pattern of growing pains or whether another cause should be considered.

Symptoms of Growing Pains & Leg Pain

  • Aching or throbbing pain in the legs
  • Pain in both legs (commonly calves, shins, thighs, or knees)
  • Pain that appears in the evening or at night
  • No pain or stiffness first thing in the morning
  • Pain that comes and goes
  • Increased discomfort after active days
  • Relief with rest, massage, or gentle stretching
Symptoms of Growing Pains & Leg Pain

Common Causes of Leg Pain in Children

  • Muscle fatigue from activity or sport
  • Rapid growth spurts
  • Poor foot mechanics or uneven loading
  • Flat feet or flexible joints
  • Tight muscles in the legs
  • High levels of physical activity
  • Sports-related stress on growing bones and tendons

Your Child’s Leg Pain Assessment Journey at Norwest Podiatry

We assess your child’s foot posture, lower limb alignment, muscle flexibility, walking pattern, and activity levels. We also consider the growth stage and sporting demands.
Explanation & Reassurance
We explain whether your child’s symptoms are consistent with growing pains or whether further support is needed, and what signs to monitor at home.
Treatment (If Needed)
Treatment is gentle and conservative. This may include activity advice, footwear guidance, stretching strategies, or support if uneven loading is contributing to pain.
Follow-Up
Some children benefit from review during growth spurts or periods of increased activity.

Treatment Options and Support for Growing Pains & Leg Pain

Treatment Options

  • Reassurance and monitoring
  • Footwear assessment and advice
  • Stretching guidance for calves and legs
  • Supportive insoles or orthotics in selected cases
  • Activity modification during flare-ups
  • Management strategies for sports-related leg pain

Tips to Help Reduce Growing Pains

  • Encourage regular stretching
  • Avoid sudden increases in activity
  • Ensure supportive footwear
  • Allow adequate rest and recovery
  • Monitor pain patterns and triggers
  • Seek assessment if pain becomes persistent or severe
Treatment Options and Support for Growing Pains & Leg Pain
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Frequently Asked Questions: Growing Pains in Children

Yes. Growing pains are very common and usually harmless, but ongoing or severe pain should always be assessed.

They most commonly occur in the evening or at night, not first thing in the morning.

Yes. Poor foot support can increase muscle fatigue and contribute to leg pain.

It is a growth-related knee condition seen in active adolescents and may be identified during assessment.

If pain is persistent, one-sided, causes limping, or affects daily activity, assessment is recommended.

No referral is required, you can book directly.

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