While also the name of a hit 80s sitcom, growing pains are real and an uncomfortable type of muscular discomfort that many kids experience. If you’re like a lot of parents, you’ve probably had many sleepless nights comforting your child as they endure relentless pain in their legs, particularly when going through a growth spurt.
Did you know that almost half of all school-aged children deal with growing pains?
Not only do these pains affect kids physically, but they also can affect emotions and behavior.
While these pains are often considered a “normal” part of growing up, they can significantly disrupt everyday life. Pediatricians may downplay them as just a natural aspect of growth. But what if growing pains have neurological roots that pediatric chiropractic care can address without using drugs?
The Link With Other Neurological Concerns
A surprising trend that many parents can relate to is the association between kids experiencing sensory challenges, autism, ADHD, and growing pains. It’s not just physical discomfort but a series of “sensory, emotional, and behavioral” issues. This pattern points to a common underlying cause—excessive stress and tension trapped in a child’s sympathetic fight-or-flight nervous system.
What Science Says
Growing pains typically emerge between the ages of 3-12 years old, persisting for years with varying intensity during rapid growth spurts. Pediatricians often attribute these aches to the belief that the growth rate outpaces the development of muscles and ligaments.
As bones lengthen during growth spurts, tension builds up in surrounding muscles, ligaments, and sensory nerves. This process leads to joint and neurospinal misalignments known as subluxations. These misalignments irritate nerves, sparking pain and sensory issues.
Subluxations cause neuromuscular irritation and tension, transmitting signals to the brain called “nociception.” This chain of signals results in feelings of pain, dysfunction, and irritation. This irritation isn’t limited to the physical domain; it can also manifest emotionally and behaviorally.
The continuous nervous system disturbance and tension arising from subluxations during periods of growth lead to distressing flare-ups labeled growing pains. Kiddos who remain in a constant state of fight or flight overdrive experience these pains more frequently and intensely.
Addressing Growing Pains Chiropractic Care
If your child is struggling with the discomfort of growing pains, pediatric chiropractic could help. Contact Real Health Chiropractic Clinic today to book an appointment with Eden Prairie chiropractor Dr. ShaRhae Matousek. She uses gentle adjustments that correct spinal misalignments and help relieve pain.