Question

My child has been experiencing joint pain since they were a year and a half old. Sometimes it’s one joint, and sometimes it’s several joints. What could this be?

Answer

Joint pain in children, often referred to as “growing pains,” can occur between the ages of 3 to 12. This is typically due to rapid bone growth that stretches the surrounding nerves, tendons, and muscles, which grow more slowly. Additionally, overuse or excessive physical activity can lead to muscle fatigue and soreness, as the accumulation of lactic acid causes muscle pain. For managing growing pains, the key is to ensure your child gets adequate rest and avoids overdoing physical activity. Proper supplementation with calcium and vitamin C, along with using a hot water bottle for warmth at night, may help. In some cases, anti-inflammatory pain relievers may be necessary. Generally, growing pains do not lead to lasting complications or affect a child’s normal growth and development. However, conditions such as rheumatic fever and synovitis should be ruled out first. If the pain persists or is accompanied by other symptoms, it’s important to consult a doctor promptly.