What should be done if a child experiences knee pain while growing taller?
Disease description:
My child has been crying and complaining of knee pain these past couple of days. After a hospital checkup, the doctor said the pain is due to growth spurts. What should I do about knee pain caused by growth in children?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Zhou Xiaofeng
When children experience knee pain during growth spurts, parents can take the following measures to relieve discomfort:
1. Heat application and massage: Apply a hot water bag, heating pad, or warm moist towel to the painful area for 15–20 minutes several times a day to improve blood circulation and relieve muscle tension. Gentle massage may also help reduce muscle tightness and pain.
2. Calcium supplementation: Ensure children consume sufficient calcium from sources such as milk and dairy products to support healthy bone development and reduce the frequency of growing pains.
3. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): If the pain is severe or occurs frequently, medications such as ibuprofen sustained-release suspension or acetaminophen dry suspension may be used under a doctor's guidance to alleviate symptoms. However, prolonged or excessive use should be avoided.
