Running, jumping, playing sports and any other form of physical activity can sometimes lead to leg pain in a child. Leg pain in children can have a variety of causes. If your child is complaining of persistent leg pain, contact your pediatrician.
Growing Pains
According to the Palo Alto Medical Foundation, growing pains are a harmless condition that affect between 10 and 20 percent of children. This condition is more common in girls than boys and typically occurs in children between the ages of 3 and 12. Symptoms of growing pains can include discomfort in the calves and thighs. One or both legs may be affected by growing pains. Pain usually occurs in the evenings and while sleeping. Massage, light heat and over-the-counter pain medications may help alleviate growing pains. Growing pains can last for months or years, but should not interfere with a child's regular activity level.
Flat Feet
Flat feet can be another cause of leg pain in children. When born, the arches of babies' feet are flat. They develop as a child grows. In children with flat feet, the arch of the feet never fully develop, according to Kids Health. Flat feet may cause weak ankles and leg pain in children. For children with flat feet, arch supports can be inserted into shoes to help reduce pain. Children with flat feet should be able to play and participate in sports.
Muscle Injuries
According to Seattle Children's Hospital, muscle cramps, spasms and strains are common overuse injuries that account for nearly 50 percent of all pediatric sports medicine injuries. Muscles cramps usually last between one and 15 minutes and normally occur in the foot or calf muscles. Cramps can occur during exercise, extreme heat and while your child is sleeping. Water and salt help treat muscle cramps. Strained muscles in children cause pain that may last for days. Muscle strains are often the result of overuse and commonly occur in the legs.
Considerations
The causes of leg pain in children can range from minor problems, such as muscle cramps, to more serious conditions, including arthritis, fractures and neuritis. Muscle cramps and spasms usually do not require medical treatment. Contact a doctor if your child's legs are too weak for him to stand or walk. Seek medical attention if leg discomfort also includes illness, red skin, swollen joints, long-lasting calf pain, numbness, severe pain, crying when his leg is touched and fever.
