Growing Pains Physio Port Macquarie | Children's Pain & Activity Guidance

 

Growing Pains Physio Port Macquarie | Children's Pain & Activity Guidance

Physiotherapy guidance for children experiencing "growing pains" in Port Macquarie. We help families understand common causes of leg and back pain, reduce flare-ups, and keep kids active with confidence.

Watch: What I Wish I Knew When I Had Osgood Schlatter Disease

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What Are "Growing Pains"?

"Growing pains" is a common term used for persistent discomfort in children, often felt in the back, ankles (Sever's Disease), shins, or at the front of the knees (Osgood Schlatter Disease).

While the name suggests growth causes the pain, we need to remember that growing is normal. However, a young, growing body can expose hidden underlying mechanical dysfunction.

Typically affecting children of any age, these pains are usually harmless but can be distressing and limiting for both child and parent.

Common Signs Families Notice

  • Pain that worsens with exercise
  • Occassional physical "bump" development at site of pain
  • May be more common during growth spurts, but not directly caused by growing

When To Seek Professional Advice

Most cases are benign, but it's important to get assessed if your child has:

  • Persistent pain in one specific spot that isn't going away
  • Pain with limping or refusal to weight-bear during the day
  • Swelling, redness, warmth, or increasing tenderness
  • Fever, unexplained fatigue, or general unwellness
  • Night pain that is severe, worsening, or not settling with comfort measures
  • Morning stiffness or pain that lasts into the day
  • Any concerns about your child's gait or movement patterns

If you're unsure, it's always okay to seek medical advice.

How Physiotherapy Helps Growing Pains

  • Screening for common musculoskeletal contributors (strength, mobility, load tolerance)
  • Uncovering hidden, underlying mechanical dysfunction (weakness, restrictions, poor postures, poor loading)
  • Activity and load guidance to keep kids active without constant flare-ups
  • Simple, child-friendly home strategies for pain management
  • Age-appropriate strength and movement control exercises
  • Clear "what to watch for" guidance for parents and caregivers
  • Reassurance and education about normal developmental patterns
  • Gradual activity progression plans for returning to sport

Book Growing Pains Physio Port Macquarie

If your child is having recurring leg pain and you'd like a clear plan and reassurance, physiotherapy can help screen for common contributors and give you a simple pathway forward.

Call/Text: 0475 731 019

Email: contact@yourwellnessnerd.com

Clinic Location:
Warehouse 17-18 / 18 Park Street
Port Macquarie NSW 2444

Child-friendly appointments available. We create a comfortable environment for kids of all ages.

Not local? Book an online telehealth physio consultation.

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About Grant Frost

Physiotherapist, APA Member

AHPRA Registered

Grant Frost is an Australian physiotherapist with over 20 years of real-world experience in musculoskeletal private practice. Based in the beautiful beachside town of Port Macquarie, New South Wales, Grant is known for looking beyond a person's symptoms to uncover the true underlying causes of pain and injury - so problems can be understood fully and solved, not just managed.

Your Wellness Nerd was created as a way for Grant to share what he has learned clinically over two decades, helping people who feel stuck, frustrated, or confused about why their pain exists or persists. His goal is simple: provide clear, practical, evidence-based insights that empower people to better understand their own bodies.

A strong advocate for evidence-based practice, Grant challenges narrow, one-size-fits-all approaches to healthcare. He is passionate about guiding the industry toward more thoughtful, sustainable, and effective solutions - especially for those who need it most: people living with pain or recovering from injury.