Photo courtesy of istockphoto.com / ZENSTOCK
​
Not to be confused with growth plates, those uncomfortable limb pains she’s getting are actually growing pains. The truth is doctors aren’t sure what causes them, but they usually surface in the shins, calves and thighs, according to the Cleveland Clinic. So why is she in pain? Some kids have flat feet, a low pain threshold or lower bone strength. Physical activity can cause pain from overuse that can last from ten minutes to half an hour.
Take her to the doctor for a proper diagnosis. If the pain is persistent (it's typically worse at night), only located in one spot, or the affected area has redness, swelling or stiffness, you can rule growing pains out. Help by massaging painful areas and giving her appropriate doses of pain medication.