Growing Pains in Kids: What Parents Need to Know
If you’re a parent of a growing boy who’s suddenly complaining about sore legs, knees, or ankles—especially after exercise—you’re not alone. Growing pains are very common, and they can be worrying when your child is visibly uncomfortable, emotional, or just not quite themselves.
Here’s what’s really going on—and what you can do to help.
Why Do Growing Pains Happen?
Growing children—especially active ones—go through a tricky combination of rapid bone growth and constant muscular activity. This can create tension in the body. Here’s how it works:
Bones grow from special areas called ‘growth plates’, which are soft and made up of rapidly dividing cells.
At the same time, muscles are being strengthened through movement and play. Strong, fit muscles are often tight—especially if the child is sporty or very active.
This tension between tight muscles and growing bones puts stress on the joints and connective tissue, particularly around areas like the knees, ankles, and sometimes even the rib cage.
Where Does It Hurt?
The most common spots for growing pains include:
Knees – especially around the front or just below the kneecap
Ankles – usually after running or jumping
Ribs – less common, but often linked to posture or sports
Back pain – not usually due to growth. Back pain in growing children should always be checked by a professional to rule out other causes.
What Can Help?
Big Clue If the pains reduce when in the swimming pool then that is a very strong indicator, ‘body tension’ is too high. Water generates a ‘Relax Reflex’ so we know the observed response is physiological.
One of the most effective ways to ease growing pains is to make the tissue above and below the sore areas more flexible. When the surrounding muscles and fascia are relaxed, it takes pressure off the sensitive growth zones and allows the body to settle down naturally.
At our clinic, we use gentle hands-on techniques to help relieve tension and calm the system. It’s not about stretching the painful area—it’s about helping the whole limb or region become more balanced and relaxed, even the neck , so the inflamed part doesn’t have to work so hard.
Most children respond really quickly. In many cases, just one or two sessions make a noticeable difference.
Is My Child Going Through a Growth Spurt? Quick Signs to Look For:
You’ve noticed they’ve shot up on your height chart on the wall or door
They’re sleeping more or having trouble waking up in the morning
They seem more irritable or snappy than usual
They struggle more after sports or complain of leg/knee pain at night
Growing is hard work—for the body and the emotions! A tired, aching child might just be telling you that their body is under construction.
Helping Children Grow Comfortably Since 1992
At The 54 Clinic, we’ve been helping children with growth-related aches and pains for over 30 years. Our very first children’s clinic was in 1992, and we still regularly see babies, toddlers, and school-aged kids with a wide range of musculoskeletal issues.
Gentle, safe, and effective, our approach helps support the body’s natural development while giving parents peace of mind.
If you’re unsure whether your child’s growing pains are normal or something more, we’re happy to assess and advise you—no pressure, just information and care.
Book a Consultation or Ask a Question
Whether you’re worried about your child’s knees, ankles, or posture, we’re here to help.
The 54 Clinic
01295 265265
Hector@the54clinic.com
