Growing pain in a teenager: what to know

The discomfort is often felt in both legs, commonly in the muscles of the thighs or calves. It may come and go, and the legs can feel normal by morning. The name does not prove that bone growth is causing the pain. A teenager who has pain focused on one joint, pain after an injury, or symptoms that continue during activity may have a different problem.

Activity-related pain near the bump below the kneecap can occur with Osgood-Schlatter Disease. Heel pain linked to running or jumping can occur with Sever's Disease. These conditions are worth discussing when the location and activity pattern fit.

During an episode, gentle massage and a warm bath or warm pack may relax tight muscles. Gentle stretching of the calves, hamstrings, and thighs can be useful when it feels comfortable; stop if stretching increases pain. Support regular sleep, balanced meals, and fluids, and record when the pain appears, which leg is affected, and whether sport preceded it.

Do not give pain medicine to a teenager unless the label and their clinician’s advice make it appropriate. A pharmacist or doctor can check the choice and dose against age, weight, allergies, and other medicines.

Arrange a medical assessment if pain is one-sided and persistent, causes a limp, wakes the teenager repeatedly, or is becoming more frequent. Seek prompt care for a swollen, hot, or red joint, fever, unusual tiredness, unexplained weight change, weakness, numbness, or pain after a significant injury. Sudden severe pain with inability to walk needs urgent attention.

Ask whether the pain pattern fits growing pains, whether the examination points to a knee or heel overuse condition, and whether activity should be modified. Bring a symptom diary and mention recent training changes, injuries, medicines, and any symptoms outside the legs.