Recurrent limb pain in children

When to see your GP

See your GP if your child's symptoms are particularly severe or suggest they may have another condition, such as:

pain in just one leg
pain also affecting the arms or back
pain that occurs every night or continues during the day
swollen joints
a high temperature (fever)
loss of appetite
weight loss
reluctance to walk, or alimp with no obvious cause

Your GP will want to rule out an injury or other illnesses, such as arthritis , vitamin D deficiency ( rickets ) or evenleukaemiaif your child is unwell. They may refer your child to hospital for further assessment.

Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 21 Dec 2018

Articles for recurrent limb pain in children

Introduction

Growing pains are aches or pains, most commonly in the lower legs, that occur in the evening or at night and affect children aged between three and 12.

What are the symptoms?

Growing pains are felt as intense, cramp-like pain in both legs. They most often affect the calves, shins or ankles, but can also affect the thighs. The pains develop in the evening or at night (ofte

What causesgrowing pains?

The cause of growing pains is unknown, although they seem to be more common in active children and children with loose, flexible joints ( joint hypermobility ). They also tend to run in families. The

What to do

Growing pains can usually be treated at home. You can give your child paracetamol or ibuprofen to manage the pain. Sometimes, giving them painkillers before bedtime afteran active day can prevent them

When to see your GP

See your GP if your child's symptoms are particularly severe or suggest they may have another condition, such as: pain in just one leg pain also affecting the arms or back pain that occurs every n

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