Growing Pains In Toddlers: Causes And Remedies To Soothe Them

Growing pains are usually described as an ache or throb in a toddler’s legs. They occur usually in the front of the thighs, behind the knees or the calves, and normally affect both legs and occur during the night, and may even wake up your little one from sleep.

There are natural remedies like an oil massage and lifestyle changes that you can try out for your little one that is sure to provide much-needed relief.

BabyChakra

Nourishing Baby Massage Oil

₹ 299

Add To Bag

Causes Of Growing Pains

The cause of the growing pains in toddlers is unknown. However, there’s no evidence that a child’s growth is painful.

Growing pains normally don’t occur during the child’s growth period phase They may be linked to restless legs syndrome. However, muscle pain during the night from overuse during the day is thought to be the most common cause of growing pains. Plus, overdoing physical activities such as climbing, running and jumping can be difficult on a child’s musculoskeletal system.

Hence, they usually seem to be more common after your toddler has a particularly full day of sports.

Treatment For Growing Pains

There’s no particular treatment for growing pains. Growing pains don’t lead to other problems and also don’t affect growth. They normally get better on their own within a year or two. Even if they don’t go away completely in a year or so, they usually become less painful. While your child is in discomfort, try self-care measures like massaging your child’s legs.

BabyChakra

Natural Foaming Wash & Shampoo

₹ 249

Add To Bag

Home Remedies to Soothe Growing Pains

There are certain home remedies that may ease the discomfort caused by growing pains in toddlers:

• Use a pain reliever. Give your child ibuprofen only as prescribed by a doctor. However, you need to avoid Aspirin, as it has a risk of Reye’s Syndrome, which is a rare but serious condition linked to Aspirin and children.
• Massage your child’s legs. Your toddler will respond well to a gentle massage so use massage oil and go for it. Some children also feel better when they’re held or cuddled.
• Try a heating pad. Heat can help soothe your child’s sore muscles. Set the heating pad on a low setting before your child’s bedtime or when he/she complains of leg pain. Remember to remove the heating pad once your child falls asleep. You may also give a warm bath using a body wash before bedtime which can be helpful.
• Make them do stretching exercises. Stretching the muscles in the legs during the day may help prevent your toddler’s pain during the night. Talk to your doctor about the stretches that might help.

Growing pains in toddlers are nothing to worry about and get better with these simple home remedies. Find out about the causes of growing pains in your child by monitoring their level of activity involving the legs throughout the day. You may talk to the doctor about any symptoms that are concerning you for the right treatment.

Cover image credit – Pexels