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Growing pains

Overview

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The main symptom of growing pains is aching in the legs. It's usually felt in both legs and tends to happen in the evening or at night.

There are some things you can do to ease the symptoms of growing pains, such as massaging the legs, using a hot water bottle and giving painkillers.

It's not known what causes growing pains but they're not caused by growing. They're more common in children who are active or have hypermobile joints.

Growing pains are leg pains that are common in children aged 3 to 12. It can be very painful, but it’s harmless and usually gets better on its own.

Page last reviewed: 24/11/2022
Next review due: 24/11/2025