“There’s no proof that growing bones cause pain, but most doctors agree that ‘growing pains’ are all too real,” says Dr. Joel Steinberg, interim chief of general pediatrics at Children’s Medical Center Dallas. “In fact, they’re pretty common.” A recent Australian study published by the Journal of Pediatrics found that 37 percent of children ages 4 to 6 years had leg pain associated with growth.

It’s not clear just what causes the pain. Some doctors think it may be related to the physical activity level of these active children. Although no specific tests for “growing pains” exist, there are some typical symptoms that are compatible. These include:

• Pain is intermittent, not occurring every day.
• Pain occurs in late afternoon, evening or during early sleep.
• The pain occurs in both legs, not usually at the same time.
• The pain is located in the front of the thigh, calf or behind the knee.
• The pain is gone by morning.

If your child’s symptoms are not typical, your doctor might order tests to rule out more serious conditions. If your child complains about leg pain with any other symptoms – a fever, a limp, swelling – call your doctor. It’s also important to call your doctor if the pain persists or worsens.

If the doctor says your child has growing pains, you can take steps to help:

• Reassure your child that the pain won’t last.
• Massage the legs gently for 10 to 15 minutes.
• Apply mild heat or give your child a warm bath.
• Give your child ibuprofen or acetaminophen (but not aspirin).