'Growing Pains': A Clinical Study of Non-Arthritic Limb Pains in Children

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Abstract
The incidence of persistent non-arthritic limb pains in the Bristol school population was found to be 4.2%; approx. equal in boys and and girls, with a max. incidence between 8 and 12 yrs. of age. By comparison with controls, a family history of rheumatic disorders was found to be significantly commoner in children with such pains. The majority of cases fell into 2 groups. Diurnal''fatigue pains''occurred in children in association with exertion, fatigue, and postural defects. In this group emotional disturbances were common, and there was a strong family history of rheumatic disorders. "Paroxysmal nocturnal pains" occurred in children who were more stable emotionally but who came from families in whom similar pains were common. A small group of children had pains apparently of psychological origin without other associations.