Child Development

Understanding and Easing Growing Pains

Growing pains – we’ve all heard of them. If you think back to childhood or recall stories from parents, these night-time leg aches are a familiar concept.1a But what are they, really?

Growing pains usually show up between the ages of three and 12.1a Kids complain of aches or pains, mostly in their legs, occurring at nighttime.1b While there are many theories behind what causes growing pains the exact cause remains a mystery.1c

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Growing Pains?

Kids experiencing growing pains often feel discomfort in their thighs, calves, shins, or the area behind their knees.2a While it’s less common, some children might also feel pain in their arms.2b

It’s worth noting that growing pains can come and go — they might last for some time, but they aren’t a daily occurrence.2c

Managing Growing Pains: Tips for Parents

If your child is dealing with growing pains, here’s some good news: they’re temporary and won’t affect your child’s growth.3a Until they pass, you can help ease your child’s discomfort in several ways:

Massage: A gentle rub can alleviate the pain.3b

Warmth: Use a heating pad to soothe aching areas.3c

Medication: Consider over-the counter pain medications specifically for children.3d

Remember, it’s essential not to let the pain limit your child’s daytime activities. Avoiding activity won’t prevent future episodes and might even intensify the pain.3e

Panado®: A Helping Hand

While growing pains can be distressing, there are ways to manage your child’s pain.

Panado® paediatric range of products includes Panado® Paediatric Syrup, Strawberry,4 Panado® Paediatric Syrup, Peppermint Alcohol and Sugar-Free,5 Panado® Paediatric Syrup, Peppermint 5 ml Sachets and Panado® Infant Drops6.

Always administer using a medicine measure or a syringe. Do not exceed the recommended dose.  Dosage details can be found at https://panado.co.za/dosage-calculator/ and are calculated according to your child’s age and weight. 

Parents trust8 Panado® for the power to fight their little one’s pain and provide fast9 relief when needed most.  Panado® products are available at Baby City, Pick n Pay, Checkers, including Hypers, Shoprite, Clicks, Dis-Chem, and Independent Pharmacies. For more information, visit visit https://panado.co.za/ and join the conversations on Facebook.

Click Cover To Read Online

Related Articles

Early childhood development lays the foundations for learning, resilience and opportunity. Why what we pack early matters for SA’s future.
Child Development

Backpacks for the future

By Pascale Bakos, Head of Communications at Afrika Tikkun Bambanani Across the...

Bedwetting in children is common. Learn causes, practical steps, and when specialist care helps restore confidence.
Child Development

Breaking the bedwetting cycle

By Dr Nico Lourens, specialist urologist with a focus on paediatric urology...

Barbie introduces its first autistic doll, created with the autistic community to support inclusion, empathy, and representation through play.
Child DevelopmentToys

Barbie Introduces Its First Autistic Doll

Mattel has unveiled its first autistic Barbie doll, created to support representation,...

Why parents should stop comparing milestones and let children develop at their own pace, with expert advice on healthy early development.
Child Development

Don’t compare. Let children blossom at their own pace

Every child develops uniquely. Children thrive when parents and caregivers allow time...

Subscribe To Our Newsletter

Join our mailing list to receive the latest news and updates from our team.

You have Successfully Subscribed!