Leg Pain in Children: Care Instructions

Many things can cause leg pain. Too much exercise or overuse can cause a muscle cramp (or charley horse). Leg cramps may sometimes be related to dehydration or low levels of certain minerals, such as potassium, calcium, or magnesium. Some medicines can also cause leg cramps. Other causes of leg pain include injuries, blood flow problems, and nerve damage.

You can usually ease your child's pain at home. Your doctor may recommend that your child rest the leg and keep it elevated.

• Be safe with medicines. Read and follow all instructions on the label.
  • If your child is not taking a prescription pain medicine, ask your doctor if your child can take an over-the-counter medicine.
  • If the doctor prescribed medicine for your child's pain, use it as prescribed.
  • Store your child’s prescription pain medicines where no one else can get to them. When you are done using them, dispose of them quickly and safely. Your local pharmacy or hospital may have a drop-off site.
• Give your child any other medicines exactly as prescribed. Contact your doctor if you think your child is having a problem with a medicine.
• Have your child rest the leg while there is pain. Your child should not stand for long periods of time.
• Prop up your child's leg at or above the level of their heart when possible.
• Offer a variety of healthy foods. These include vegetables, fruits, nuts, beans, lean meat, fish, and whole grains. Limit sodium and sugar.
• If directed by your doctor, put ice or a cold pack on the area for 10 to 20 minutes at a time. Put a thin cloth between the ice and your child's skin.
• Your child's leg may be in a splint, a brace, or an elastic bandage, and your child may have crutches to help with walking. Follow your doctor's directions about how long your child needs to wear supports and how to use the crutches.