Toddler with Knee Pain
Because of their high activity levels, most toddlers experience knee pain on occasion. If they remain happy and playful, it is likely to be temporary soreness from overuse. Knee pain that interferes with your child's normal activities or is accompanied by fever and other symptoms warrants further investigation.
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Identification
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A doctor should take a full medical history and conduct a thorough examination of your child before chalking their pain up to "growing pains." Babycenter.com states that 25 percent to 40 percent of healthy children will suffer from vague, short-lived growing pains, but a number of more serious conditions might cause knee pain in toddlers.
Diseases and Conditions
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Lyme disease, carried by ticks, can cause joint swelling and pain in the knee. Juvenile rheumatoid arthritis (JRA), an autoimmune disorder that causes joint inflammation and swelling, sometimes occurs in toddlers, especially if there is a family history of the illness.
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Sprains and Strains
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Tearing or pulling the muscles or tendons attaching them to the bone (sprain) or the ligaments (strain) can result in toddler knee pain, especially if he recently has fallen or engaged in a sports activity such as soccer or T-ball.
When to Seek Medical Advice
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Consult your doctor if your toddler's knee pain is accompanied by fever, any type of rash, swollen lymph nodes, an inability to stand or bear weight on the knee or swollen joints.
Prevention/Solution
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Temporary knee pain from overuse can be eased by rest, warm compresses or baths and a dose of ibuprofen or acetaminophen.
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