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Apr 12, 2025By Priya Sharma
When a child says that their knee hurts, it’s easy to think it’s just a bump or a growing pain. But sometimes, that pain might mean something more. As parents, you probably often worry, especially when you are unsure if it’s something serious or just part of childhood.
According to UK physiotherapy sources, around 30 percent of kids experience musculoskeletal pain, with the knee being one of the most frequent problem areas, especially in active adolescents.
Read below this article to know about knee pain in kids, its causes, symptoms and treatment.
What Causes Knee Pain in Children?
Knee pain can come from many different sources. Here are a few of the most common causes behind knee pain in kids:
Growing Pains
This is one of the most common reasons. Growing pains usually happen between ages 3 to 12 and are often felt at night. They are harmless but can be uncomfortable.
Overuse or Sports Injuries
Running, jumping, or twisting during sports can strain the muscles and tendons around the knee. Conditions, such as Osgood-Schlatter disease—a common cause of knee pain in active children—can happen when the tendon that connects the kneecap to the shinbone gets irritated.
Injuries
A fall, twist, or bump can cause sprains, bruises, or even fractures. After all, kids may not always show how much pain they’re in, so it’s important to look for swelling, limping, or avoiding movement.
Flat Feet or Poor Posture
Sometimes, pain in the knees can be caused by problems with the way a child stands or walks. Flat feet can place extra pressure on the knees.
Infections or Medical Conditions
Though rare, infections or conditions, including juvenile arthritis, can also cause knee pain. If your child has pain with swelling, redness, fever, or stiffness in the morning, talk to a doctor right away.
Signs You Should Not Ignore
Not all knee pain is serious, but certain signs mean you should seek medical help immediately
- Pain that doesn’t go away after a few days
- Swelling or warmth around the knee
- Difficulty walking or standing
- Fever along with knee pain
- Pain that wakes your child at night
4 Effective Tips To Get Relief From Knee Pain
Here are a few simple things that can help relieve knee pain in kids:
- Rest: If the pain seems to come after physical activity, give your child a break from sports or rough play.
- Ice packs: A cold pack can reduce swelling and relieve discomfort.
- Supportive shoes: Good shoes can help correct poor posture and reduce pressure on the knees.
- Stretching: Gentle stretching and strengthening exercises with a physiotherapist’s help can prevent future problems.
Conclusion
Knee pain in children, in many cases, is a normal part of growing up—especially for active kids. However, with a little rest, proper care, and attention, most kids bounce back quickly. As always, if something doesn’t feel right, it is best to speak to your doctor.
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