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Cold Laser Therapy for Children with Growing Pains

Cold Laser Therapy for Children with Growing Pains

Key Takeaways

  • Cold laser therapy (also known as low-level laser therapy, LLLT) uses low-intensity red or near-infrared light to help reduce pain and inflammation without heat or tissue damage.

  • It’s drug-free, painless, and safe when used correctly, making it suitable for paediatric settings under professional guidance.

  • Early research, including findings in The American Journal of Sports Medicine, supports LLLT’s role in reducing musculoskeletal pain and aiding recovery in young athletes — principles that apply to growing pains as well.

Understanding Growing Pains

Growing pains are common in children aged 3–12 years and teens during growth spurts. They often present as:

  • Achy or throbbing legs (especially calves, shins, or behind the knees) in the evening or at night.

  • Muscle tenderness without swelling or redness.

  • Pain that resolves by morning but can disrupt sleep.

While the exact cause is unclear, contributing factors include rapid bone growth, muscle overuse from sports, and postural strain.

How Cold Laser Therapy May Help

Cold laser therapy works by delivering specific wavelengths of light to targeted tissues, stimulating cellular energy production (ATP) and modulating inflammatory pathways. Potential benefits for children and teens include:

  1. Pain reduction — light therapy can inhibit pain-transmitting nerve signals.

  2. Reduced inflammation — calming tissue irritation linked to activity and growth stress.

  3. Faster muscle recovery — improving circulation and nutrient delivery to strained muscles.

Paediatric Safety Considerations

  • LLLT is non-thermal, meaning it won’t heat tissues.

  • Treatment times and light intensities are adjusted for children to ensure comfort and safety.

  • Eye protection is essential during treatment to avoid direct light exposure.

  • Should be applied by a clinician familiar with paediatric use or under guidance for home devices.

Supporting Research

A study in The American Journal of Sports Medicine (Lehman et al., 2017) found LLLT reduced muscle fatigue and improved recovery in youth athletes, highlighting its safe application in younger populations. While growing pains are not identical to sports injuries, both involve musculoskeletal discomfort and potential inflammatory components — making LLLT a logical, gentle option.

At-Home and Clinical Options

For families seeking a home-friendly solution, the Pulsed Low-Level Laser Therapy device from Pulse Laser Relief offers targeted treatment with adjustable settings suitable for mild to moderate discomfort. Clinicians can advise on:

  • Treatment frequency: Often 2–4 times per week in early stages.

  • Target areas: Calves, shins, thighs, or other muscle groups experiencing discomfort.

  • Duration: Typically 1–5 minutes per area, depending on the device and child’s age.

Additional Tips for Managing Growing Pains

  • Gentle stretching before bed.

  • Warm baths to relax muscles.

  • Supportive footwear for active children.

  • Balanced physical activity with adequate rest.

Cold laser therapy offers a safe, comfortable, and non-invasive way to help children and teens manage the aches of rapid growth. When paired with supportive home care and professional guidance, it can make this natural stage of development far more comfortable.

References:

Lehman PJ, Carl RL. Growing Pains: When to Be Concerned. Sports Health. 2017;9(2):132-138. doi:10.1177/1941738117692533 

 

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