Knee Pain in Children: When to Seek Medical Advice - Family Medicine

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Knee pain in children can be a concerning issue for both parents and healthcare providers. In your case, your 8-year-old daughter is experiencing knee pain, particularly when climbing stairs, which raises several important considerations regarding potential causes and the appropriate steps to take.

First, it is essential to understand that knee pain in children can arise from various factors, including growth-related issues, overuse injuries, or underlying medical conditions. Given your daughter's age and activity level, it is plausible that she may be experiencing "growing pains," a common phenomenon in children. Growing pains typically occur in the late afternoon or evening and can be felt in the legs, particularly around the knees. These pains are generally benign and often resolve with rest or over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen.

However, since your daughter is also experiencing pain specifically when climbing stairs, it is crucial to consider other potential causes. One possibility is Osgood-Schlatter disease, which is characterized by pain and swelling just below the knee, where the patellar tendon attaches to the tibia. This condition is common in active children and adolescents, especially those involved in sports that require running and jumping. It is often exacerbated by physical activity and can be associated with growth spurts.

Another consideration is the possibility of patellar tendinitis, which can occur due to repetitive stress on the knee joint, particularly in children who participate in sports like taekwondo. The symptoms typically include pain around the kneecap, especially during activities that involve bending the knee, such as climbing stairs or squatting.

Given your daughter's weight of 38 kg and height of 130 cm, it is also worth considering whether her body mechanics and weight distribution could be contributing to her knee pain. Excess weight can place additional stress on the knee joints, particularly during physical activities. However, it is essential to approach this topic sensitively, as children can be very self-conscious about their weight.

In terms of seeking medical advice, it would be advisable to consult a pediatric orthopedic specialist. They can perform a thorough evaluation, including a physical examination and possibly imaging studies, to rule out any underlying conditions such as ligament injuries, cartilage issues, or other orthopedic concerns. The specialist can also assess her overall biomechanics and provide recommendations tailored to her specific needs.

In the meantime, you can help manage her knee pain by encouraging her to rest and avoid activities that exacerbate the pain, such as excessive stair climbing or high-impact sports. Applying ice to the affected area after activity may also help reduce inflammation and discomfort. Additionally, ensuring she has proper footwear that provides adequate support can be beneficial.

Lastly, since you mentioned that your daughter has a history of frequent colds and swollen lymph nodes, it may be worth discussing her overall immune health with her pediatrician. While these issues may not be directly related to her knee pain, a comprehensive approach to her health can help ensure that any underlying conditions are addressed.

In summary, while growing pains are a common cause of knee discomfort in children, the specific symptoms your daughter is experiencing warrant further evaluation by a pediatric orthopedic specialist. They can help determine the exact cause of her knee pain and recommend appropriate treatment options to ensure she can continue to enjoy her activities without discomfort.