How to ease growing pains
31 July, 2018
There is no specific treatment for growing pains. However, the following home remedies can help ease a child's discomfort:
- A warm bath. Bathing in warm water, especially before bedtime, can help reduce aches and pains and promote sleep.
- Massaging. Gently massaging or rubbing the affected area can make the child feel better. Merely holding or cuddling the child may also help.
- Stretching. Gently stretching the calves and thighs during the day may ease or prevent symptoms. However, stretching exercises may be challenging for younger children. Ask a doctor what types of exercises are best.
- Warmth. Try applying a heating pad or hot water bottle to the affected area. Make sure these are not too hot and take care to protect the child's skin from burning. Do not use these items during sleep.
- Painkillers. Over-the-counter (OTC) medication, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, can help relieve aches and pains on an occasional basis.
People should not give aspirin to children. Doctors do not recommend aspirin for children, as they have linked it with a rare but serious condition called Reye's syndrome.
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