Your kid says their back hurts, and now you’re Googling “pediatric orthopedic emergencies.” Relax (at least a little): Back pain in children isn’t as rare as you might think, and most of the time, it’s not a sign of something serious.
That said, it’s important to know when to keep an eye on it, when to step in with some at-home TLC, and when it’s actually time to go to the ER. In this article, we’ll walk through the common causes of back pain in school-age kids, the warning signs to watch out for, and how to advocate for your child’s health when talking with medical professionals.
Common Causes of Back Pain in Kids
First off, take a deep breath – kids are active, their bodies are growing like weeds, and sometimes their backs are just catching up with everything else.
Here are a few usual suspects:
- Heavy backpacks: An overloaded backpack (especially one slung over one shoulder) can strain little backs and muscles that aren’t built for carrying what feels like a small library.
- Poor posture: Slouching over devices or slumping at desks can cause aches and pains over time.
- Sports and roughhousing: Whether it’s soccer, gymnastics, or a fierce living room wrestling match with a sibling, kids’ backs take a beating sometimes. Minor muscle strains are a common (and usually harmless) side effect of all that energy.
- Growth spurts: Growing pains are real, and sometimes, that includes back pain. As bones and muscles stretch and adjust, it’s not unusual for kids to feel a few weird twinges.
Warning Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore
If you spot any of the signs listed below, it’s a good idea to trust your instincts and reach out to your child’s pediatrician.
- Pain that doesn’t go away after a few days of rest and TLC.
- Pain that worsens, especially at night or in the morning.
- Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the legs or arms.
- Changes in posture or walking, like a limp or favoring one side.
- Unexplained weight loss, fever, or fatigue.
Remember: you know your kid better than anyone. If something feels off, it’s always better to get it checked out rather than spend sleepless nights wondering “what if.”
When to See a Doctor
In less common cases, back pain can be a sign of an underlying condition like scoliosis (a curve in the spine) or inflammatory conditions. These cases are rarer, but it’s good to keep them in mind, just in case.
It’s also important to know that many conditions that cause back pain and spinal problems can be easily treated by specialists nowadays. However, it’s important to act fast, so if you suspect anything, it’s best to visit your child’s pediatrician.
If there is a problem, the child may need surgery to correct it. It sounds scary, but it’s not. Plus, modern procedures are safer and less invasive than those of the past. For your own peace of mind, you can run a search for spine specialists in your area.
If you live in Wayne, New Jersey, search for a spine surgeon near you in Wayne, NJ, and see how many specialists come up. Look at their profiles and clinics, and read the testimonials to see you’re not alone in this hurdle.
Advocate for Your Child’s Health
When it comes to doctor visits, don’t be afraid to speak up – you’re your child’s best voice.
Keep a simple log of symptoms (what hurts, when, and how bad) to share with the doctor. Ask all the questions, even the ones that feel silly (there’s no such thing when it’s about your kid), and trust your gut if something doesn’t add up.
In Summary
Most of the time, a little back pain in kids is just part of growing up. To help them up, stay tuned in, act when needed, and never hesitate to get a second opinion if your gut says something’s off. You don’t need a medical degree to be a great advocate; you just need to show up, ask questions, and have your kid’s back.
