Growing pains is the traditional name for a common pattern of harmless leg pain in children, usually between ages 3 and 12. Despite the name, the pain has not been shown to be caused by growth. It often occurs after an active day and improves by morning.
Typical features
- aching or throbbing in both legs
- pain in the muscles, often in the thighs, calves or behind the knees
- symptoms in the evening or at night
- normal walking and activity during the day
- no swelling, redness, fever or joint stiffness
The pain may come and go for months or longer. The child should otherwise appear well and have a normal physical examination.
Comfort measures
- Gently massage the painful muscles.
- Use a warm bath or a covered warm pack.
- Encourage normal daytime activity when the child feels well.
- Use children’s acetaminophen or ibuprofen if suitable, following the dose instructions or a pharmacist’s advice.
Do not give aspirin to a child under 16 unless specifically prescribed. Repeated pain medicine use should be discussed with a healthcare professional.
When it may not be growing pains
Arrange medical assessment if pain affects only one leg, continues into the morning, occurs during activity, is located in one joint, causes a limp or stops the child walking. Swelling, warmth, redness, unusual bruising, persistent back pain or pain after an injury also needs evaluation.
Seek prompt help if leg pain occurs with fever, marked tiredness, weight loss, reduced appetite, night sweats, weakness, numbness or a child who appears seriously unwell. Sudden hip, thigh or knee pain with inability to bear weight requires urgent assessment.
Diagnosis
There is no test specifically for growing pains. A clinician diagnoses the pattern after checking that the history and examination do not suggest an injury, joint disease, infection or another cause. Tests are usually unnecessary when the features are typical.
Sources
Reviewed: 28 August 2026