Knee Pain: How to Care for Your Child
Knee pain can happen for many different reasons, and can come on slowly or suddenly. Most cases of knee pain are not serious and go away with rest and basic home care.
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Your child should take a break from activities that cause pain or put stress on the knee, such as running, dancing, martial arts, and jumping. Your child may try a low-impact exercise (such as swimming or biking) as long as it doesn't cause pain.
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If your child is uncomfortable, you can give acetaminophen (such as Tylenol® or a store brand) OR ibuprofen (such as Advil®, Motrin®, or a store brand), if recommended by your health care provider.
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Put a cold pack on the knee for 15–20 minutes every 3–4 hours. Place a towel or cloth between the cold pack and the skin.
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Keep the leg raised when possible to minimize swelling.
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Your health care provider may recommend specific stretches or exercises, or refer your child to a physical therapist.
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When your child returns to sports, he or she should wear supportive athletic shoes.
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Schedule follow-up appointments as directed by your health care provider.
Your child:
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still has pain after following the care instructions
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has pain that gets worse
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has pain that wakes him or her at night more than once in a while
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has a hard time walking
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develops other symptoms (like fever or a rash)
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has redness or warmth of the knee
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has new or worsening swelling in the knee
What can cause knee pain? Pain may happen from a strain, a tear, or swelling in the:
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ligaments (bands that connect bones to other bones)
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tendons (bands that connect muscle to bone)
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muscles
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connective tissues (which support the body's organs, bones, and muscles)
Stress on the bones and inflammation in the joints also can cause pain. Kids can get knee pain if they play sports where the knee is used for the same movements over and over again. Sometimes, problems in the hip can cause pain that's felt in the knee. Less common causes include infections or growths on the bones.