NHS 'do not give' alert over children aged 3 to 12
The NHS is offering advice to parents over a common problem
Mums and dads with youngsters aged between three and 12 have received vital guidance from the NHS on tackling a widespread condition that can leave little ones uncomfortable and upset. Commonly known as 'growing pains,' this phrase refers to the leg discomfort that countless children endure at various stages.
While the condition is perfectly normal, completely harmless and typically resolves without the need for any help, pain-relieving medicines can provide welcome relief from the aches.
The symptoms might come and go across months or potentially years. The discomfort is usually characterised as a dull ache or pulsing feeling in both legs, targeting the muscles instead of the joints, reports the Mirror.
It generally strikes during evening hours or overnight, vanishing come morning. In guidance aimed at parents who may feel anxious, especially when their youngster becomes distressed and bewildered by the discomfort, the NHS recommends mums and dads should:.
- gently massage your child's legs
- put a covered hot water bottle or heat pack on the painful area
- give children's ibuprofen or paracetamol to ease the pain
They caution: "Do not give aspirin to a child under the age of 16 unless a doctor prescribes it."
Does my child need to see a GP?
You should only see a GP if your child is complaining of pain in one leg. You should also take them to see a doctor if your child:
- has leg pain in the morning
- has leg pain when walking or taking part in activities
- has leg pain that’s bad enough to stop them walking or makes them limp
- has pain in a joint, such as their knees or ankles
- has a rash, swelling or unusual bruising on the legs
- has leg pain and a high temperature
- feels unusually tired or sleepy a lot of the time
- does not want to eat or is losing weight
What causes growing pains?
The paints actually have no connection to actual growth and don't signal any serious medical issue, the NHS confirms. Growing pains often happen in active children, especially following vigorous physical activity. They're also prevalent in people with highly flexible joints, a condition known as joint hypermobility syndrome.
Try these stretches
Healthier Together suggests certain stretches to alleviate discomfort in children. These should be performed twice daily, three times on each leg, holding each pose for 30 seconds.
You can try the following:
- Hamstring stretch: Get your child to lie on their back with their legs out straight. Lift one leg, keeping the knee straight and gently apply pressure to bottom of the foot pushing it towards them. They should feel a gentle pulling in the back of their leg.
- Calf stretch: With your child lying on their back with their knees straight, gently push the sole of the foot towards their body until they feel a pull in the calf muscle.
- Quads Stretch: With your child lying on their tummy, gently flex the knee bringing the heel towards the bottom until they feel a pulling in the muscle on the front of the thigh