Growing pains are a part of growing up, but for some kids the pain can keep them from having fun being active. Meghan Knox, clinic manager and certified Canadian pedorthist at BioPed in Guelph says that kids don’t have to suffer through growing pains. There are treatments that are quick and easy.
“Bones grow faster than muscle and growing pains occur when the soft tissue that attach to the growth plate are pulled too much,” explains Meghan. “When kids experience growing pains in their lower limbs, it is most commonly felt in the front of the knee, middle of the foot, and back of the heel.”
Is it Growing Pains?
Sometimes it can be difficult for kids to describe their pain or even to feel where the pain is coming from.
“If your kid’s heels, legs, or knees are sore, it is a good idea to have them assessed. Sometimes kids might just say their legs hurt when they run but they can’t identify exactly what is going on like adults can. Kids don’t have to suffer through growing pains. It is best to have them checked out by a certified pedorthist so they can get back to their normal fun activities,” suggests Meghan.
Treatment is Fast and Easy
Luckily, growing pains are fairly easy to treat with the help of a Canadian certified pedorthist. Your kids will be back on their feet to enjoy sports and play right away. The first step is having a non-invasive lower limb assessment, which is painless and helps the pedorthist understand the best course of action.
“Depending on the individual, we usually recommend bracing or an orthotic for their outdoor shoes. Sometimes an over-the-counter device will work. The response for most kids is pretty immediate and they usually feel relief right away. Most kids don’t have to stop playing sports or being active,” says Meghan. “We also show the family how to ice the area and what kind of stretching exercises will help reduce the pain.”
She continues, “Some kids are worried about what they will look like if they have orthotics, but the devices just fit into their normal athletic shoes. The orthotics are very low profile and nobody will know they are there.”
Parents May Need an Assessment, Too
Since genetics play a large part in our biomechanics, it might be a good idea for parents and siblings to have assessments as well. Other family members are also likely to experience lower limb discomfort that a certified pedorthist can help them with.
“Usually, these kinds of issues are genetic and we end up seeing the whole family,” says Meghan.
To schedule an assessment appointment and/or to find out more about growing pains and how you can help reduce your child’s discomfort, visit BioPed online or call (519) 821-7310. Meghan and her team are conveniently located at 102 Wyndham Street North right here in Guelph.