How is Physiotherapy useful for “Growing pain”? – by Ms Thilaga G

Growing pain. Have you heard of “growing pain”? In this case, as the name implies, it does happen to growing teenagers!

Adolescents may complain of pain just below the knee, where the tendon attaches the kneecap to the shinbone – a growing pain condition.

What is “Growing pain”?

Teenagers may experience growing pain during their growth phase. When growth spurt occurs, the structures such as bones, muscles and tendons grow and change rapidly. This puts additional stress on the muscles and bones, thus causing pain. Furthermore, this is more common in teenagers active in sports and athletics.

What are common Growing pains?

Singularly, common parts of the body where growing pain occurs are the back of the knee (Osgood Schlatter’s knee).

How does physiotherapy help?

There are no medical treatments for this condition, but physiotherapy helps to relieve the symptoms. Physiotherapy management focuses on reducing pain and swelling, loosening tight muscles and strengthening them.

How does growing pain interfere with sports? Should my child stop sports?

Growing pain causes pain during certain sports activities such as running and jumping. However,  if the pain isn’t disabling, sports activities can be continued later along with regular stretches and other self – management tools such as taping.

What are the physiotherapy treatments for Growing pain?

Common treatments include stretches, soft-tissue mobilisation, strengthening exercise and taping.

Acknowledgment with thanks:

This article is contributed by Ms Thilaga G, Physiotherapist from Virar’s Physiotherapy.

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