4yr old always complains of pain behind right knee, almost 6 months now. pediatrician brushes it off as growing pains will not do any other tests, no x-ray. could this be serious?

As far as I am concerned there is no such thing as “growing pains. “. There is a cause for pain and should be investigated. If it is “ growing pains. “ then appropriate muscle stretching is needed to help relieve muscle!tendon pain from tight muscles. Examination can also help to determine if muscle/ tendon problem. “Growing pains” is only one possibility. No response to treatment.

Request a referral to Pediatric Orthopedics, if there is a concern. Please see the Emergency room, if his gait is affected, associated with fever or swelling. Watch for these signs. A virtual consult with Healthtap is available.

Pains in the legs are common in young children. X-rays and labs are usually not helpful. If your child is active, jumps, climbs, plays with other children, this is reassuring. Monitoring growth, intake and activity are most helpful. Fever, weight loss, refusal to bear weight, would be red flags. A virtual visit may be helpful.