Relax, it's just growing pains - Lifelines - nighttime aches and pains in children could be growing pains

Vibrant Life, Jan-Feb, 2002

When your healthy child begins complaining of nighttime aches and pains, especially in the legs, should you be concerned?

Typically experienced by children ages 6 to 11, growing pains are rarely severe and usually don't cause a child to cry. The pains generally last 10 to 15 minutes, and are often experienced at night because this is a time in the day when no other stimuli are present to distract children. The best thing a parent can do is remain calm, as fear and stress can actually heighten the child's pain.

To help alleviate your child's growing pain symptoms, use a warm heating pad or try decreasing your child's bedroom humidity.

(Texas Children's Hospital)