Kids Ask: Growing Pains

Aired on Lifetime Television
Sunday, June 25 and October 22, 2006
Show 317

Michaela Powell and Alex Smith:

Sometimes our legs ache really bad. Our moms say it's growing pains. Dr. Lisa, what are growing pains?

Dr. Lisa Thornton:

Up to 40 percent of all kids experience growing pains. Growing pains are pain in the muscles, not in the joints, or the bone. And they usually happen at night after a really physically active day. Most children report pains in the front of their thighs, or their calves, or behind the knees. Sometimes kids with growing pains feel better when they are held, massaged, and cuddled. You can also try stretching, or putting a heating pad on the sensitive area. And by the way, growing pains are never serious, but if you're worried, see your doctor.