Growing Pains In Kids
You’ve probably heard the term “growing pains” before usually describing those nighttime leg aches that wake kids up crying. While common, they’re often brushed off as “just a part of growing up.” But what if those aches were actually your child’s body asking for better balance, movement, and alignment?
At Third Coast Chiropractic, we see many families whose kids experience these mysterious pains. The good news is that gentle chiropractic care can help bring comfort and support their growing bodies naturally.
What Are Growing Pains
Growing pains are typically described as aching or throbbing sensations in the legs, most often in the calves, thighs, or behind the knees. They tend to happen:
In the evenings or at night (sometimes waking kids up).
After a day of running, jumping, or sports.
In kids between ages 3 and 12, though every child is different.
Doctors still don’t know exactly what causes growing pains, but they’re not actually caused by bones growing too fast. Instead, many experts believe they’re related to:
Muscle fatigue from activity.
Postural strain or imbalance as the body develops.
Joint or nervous system stress that builds up through the day
The Role Of the Nervous System and Alignment
Your child’s nervous system coordinates growth, muscle tone, and balance. When there’s tension, misalignment, or restricted motion (especially in the pelvis, hips, or spine), the body has to work harder to move and recover.
Even small misalignments can create uneven stress patterns that show up as:
Leg or knee pain after activity.
Poor posture.
Coordination issues.
Restless sleep or frequent waking from discomfort.
By gently restoring balance and mobility in the spine and joints, chiropractic adjustments can reduce that stress helping muscles relax and the nervous system regulate more efficiently.
How Chiropractic Care Can Help with Growing Pains
Chiropractic care doesn’t “fix” growth itself, your child’s body already knows how to do that beautifully. What we do is help the body adapt and move through those growth changes with less stress.
Benefits parents often notice include:
Fewer nighttime leg aches.
Improved posture and coordination.
Better sleep and mood.
Happier, more active kids who recover faster after play.
When the spine and nervous system are in balance, your child’s muscles and joints can work in harmony, supporting growth instead of fighting against it.
What You Can Do at Home
Along with chiropractic care, here are a few simple ways to support your child’s comfort:
Gentle stretching before bed (especially legs and hips).
Warm baths or a heating pad on sore areas.
Good hydration throughout the day.
Proper shoes with supportive soles for running and play.
Balanced rest and play mix activity with recovery.
Conclusion
Growing pains may be common, but they don’t have to be your child’s “normal.” Chiropractic care helps keep your child’s body balanced as they grow, supporting their nervous system, muscles, and joints naturally.
If your child often complains of leg aches or restless nights, it may be time to look beyond “they’ll grow out of it.” A gentle adjustment may make all the difference.
📞 Call Third Coast Chiropractic at 231-354-2600 to schedule your child’s next visit and help them grow strong, healthy, and pain-free.