Beyond Growing Pains: Recognizing When Your Child’s Aches Need Neurological Attention

Children commonly complain of aches and pains as they grow, especially in their legs or back. These discomforts are often casually attributed to “growing pains”, a benign and temporary phase. However, not all aches should be brushed off. Some may be early signs of neurological conditions that require timely evaluation and intervention.

Growing pains typically present in children between the ages of 3 to 12 years. They are most often felt in the legs, thighs, calves, or behind the knees and tend to occur in the late afternoon or evening. These pains:

In most cases, these pains do not indicate a serious problem and are simply part of musculoskeletal development. However, when the pain is persistent, localized, or accompanied by other concerning signs, it may be time to look deeper.

There are certain “red flags” that suggest a child’s pain may be neurologically rooted or indicative of another underlying medical issue. These include:

Growing pains usually follow a waxing and waning pattern. If the discomfort is increasing in intensity, duration, or frequency, it may suggest something more serious, like nerve compression or inflammation.

Neurological pain often presents unilaterally. If a child persistently complains of pain in one arm or leg, or if the pain is always localized to one specific region, it could be due to nerve irritation or spinal issues.

Any change in gait, limping, or reluctance to bear weight on a limb requires further assessment. It could indicate nerve involvement, spinal cord abnormalities, or muscular dystrophy.

If the child’s pain is accompanied by symptoms such as:

Peripheral nerves can be affected due to autoimmune conditions, infections, or inherited disorders. Symptoms include burning pain, tingling, and weakness, often in the hands or feet.

Conditions like tethered cord syndrome, spinal tumors, or herniated discs can cause back pain that radiates to the limbs, as well as neurological deficits.

In children with mild cerebral palsy, muscle stiffness or spasticity might be mistaken for growing pains. However, the associated coordination issues and abnormal movement patterns usually provide clues.

While primarily a rheumatological condition, some types of juvenile arthritis can lead to nerve compression or neurological symptoms.

A rare but serious condition, GBS involves progressive muscle weakness starting from the legs and moving upward. Pain may precede the weakness and is often described as deep or aching.

Early intervention is key when it comes to neurological issues in children. Parents should consult a pediatric neurologist if:

A pediatric neurologist will conduct a thorough neurological examination and may order tests such as:

While it’s natural to hope the pain is temporary, being proactive can make all the difference. Here’s how parents and caregivers can support their child:

Not all childhood aches are simply growing pains. While the majority are harmless and short-lived, persistent or unusual pain can be the body’s way of signaling deeper neurological concerns. Recognizing the difference and seeking timely neurological evaluation can ensure that children receive the care they need to thrive. By staying informed and attentive, caregivers play a vital role in the early detection and management of potentially serious conditions, ultimately supporting a child’s long-term well-being.