If your child is active and loves sport, you’ve probably heard them complain of sore legs, aching heels, or “growing pains.” For many children, aches are just part of their growth and busy routines. But sometimes, pain can be a sign of something more — an injury or foot problem that needs professional attention.
At The Foot Room, we regularly see children whose parents are unsure whether their pain is “normal” or something to worry about. Here’s how to tell the difference.
What Are Growing Pains?
Growing pains are common in children, usually appearing between the ages of 3–12. They often show up as:
- Aching or throbbing in the legs (especially at night).
- Pain in both legs at the same time.
- Pain that comes and goes, rather than lasting all day.
Growing pains don’t usually cause swelling, redness, or limping. Most children are pain-free again by morning.
When It Could Be More Than Growing Pains
Active children are prone to sports-related injuries and foot conditions that mimic “growing pains.” It’s worth seeking advice if your child has:
- Persistent pain during the day that affects walking or running.
- Pain in one leg or one specific area(like the heel or knee).
- Swelling, redness, or warmth around a joint.
- A limp or change in the way they walk/run.
- Pain linked to a sport or activity that doesn’t ease with rest.
Common conditions we see include:
- Sever’s Disease– heel pain caused by inflammation at the growth plate (common in sporty children).
- Osgood-Schlatter’s Disease– knee pain where the tendon pulls on the shinbone.
- Foot and ankle injuries from overuse or poorly fitting footwear.
How Parents Can Help at Home
- Make sure your child wears well-fitted, supportive shoes (sports trainers should be replaced regularly).
- Encourage stretching and warm-ups before activity.
- Offer rest and ice for minor aches.
- Keep an eye on whether pain is improving or getting worse.
When to See a Podiatrist
If your child’s pain is persistent, activity-related, or affecting how they move, it’s worth getting them checked. A podiatrist can assess their gait, footwear, and foot structure to see if there’s an underlying cause.
At The Foot Room, we offer specialist children’s podiatry appointments at both clinics:
- Longridge – just off Berry Lane
- Broughton – A6, Garstang Road
Our paediatric specialist podiatrist is experienced in diagnosing and managing children’s foot and leg pain, helping them stay active and confident in sport.
The Takeaway
Not every ache is a cause for concern — but not every pain is “just growing pains” either. If your child’s pain is ongoing, one-sided, or stopping them from enjoying the sports they love, it’s best to get it checked.
Book a children’s podiatry appointment at The Foot Room in Longridge or Broughton today, and give your child the support they need to keep moving.
Disclaimer: This post is based on our clinical observations and professional opinion. We are not medical doctors and this blog is not intended to replace medical advice. Always consult your GP, Podiatrist or a medical professional if you have concerns about your health.
