Question: Our fourteen-year-old son experiences frequent growing pains, especially in his knees. Sometimes he screams in pain. A friend suggested physiotherapy might help, but I thought growing pains were just a normal part of life. What do you think? — M.O., Houses
Physiotherapist Jan Jorn van het Land responds: Growing pains are indeed a common part of childhood development, but they shouldn't be unbearable—no child should be screaming in agony. While a physiotherapist can't eliminate growing pains entirely, we can significantly reduce the discomfort through targeted techniques. This allows your son to enjoy daily activities with far less pain and greater happiness.
For muscle-related growing pains, a gentle massage often provides quick relief. However, if pain worsens during jumping, stair climbing, or running, it might not be typical growing pains but Osgood-Schlatter disease. This is characterized by a painful, swollen bump on the bone just below the knee. In such cases, a physiotherapist can recommend light exercises while avoiding high-impact activities on the knee.
Always take children's growing pains seriously and consult your doctor for proper evaluation and guidance.
