Mention the term “Growing Pains,” and you might think of the classic 1980s sitcom starring Alan Thicke and Joanna Kerns about a mom, dad and their kids growing up in middle-class America. Or you might think of the literal, physical pains associated with growing up!
So what are growing pains? They’ve been described as an ache or throb in the legs. Often found in the front of the thighs, the calves or behind the knees, growing pains tend to occur at night in children as their young bodies literally grow, getting bigger and bigger. Are they actual pains? There’s no evidence that these pains actually hurt, but… they can wake a child from their sleep and they can be noticeable. Sometimes parents might be asked to put a heating pad on their child’s muscles and/or to massage them.
Growing pains, while typically associated with the legs, can also include abdominal pain/issues and/or headaches that “come and go.” There could be swelling, tenderness, weakness and/or other issues, especially located in the joints. Sometimes growing pains interfere with a child’s normal, everyday activities.
It has been suggested that growing pains could be caused or exacerbated by the overuse of muscles… So, perhaps a child runs, jumps and climbs so much that their musculoskeletal system gets overworked and some pain ensues. Perhaps growing pains are caused by emotional problems. It has also been suggested that discomfort from growing pains can be caused by injury to the spine. Does your child have back pain?
Would it make sense to take your preschooler or school-age child to a chiropractor for chiropractic care at such a young age? Yes. Chiropractic care can help provide some relief for their growing pains.
In the Forest Lake, MN, area, Lakewoods Chiropractic has patients of all ages, including young children. Please call the office at 651-464-0800 to make an appointment for you and your child, especially if their “growing pains” have been an issue that needs some attention.
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