ARM OR LEG (LIMB) PAIN  

 

Symptoms | When to call | Homecare Advice

 

HOME CARE ADVICE FOR ARM OR LEG (LIMB) PAIN

  1. Treatment For Muscle Cramps:
    • Muscle cramps in the feet or calf muscles occur in a third of children.
    • During attacks, stretch the painful muscle by pulling the foot and toes upward as far as they will go to break the spasm.
    • Stretch the muscle in the direction opposite to how it is being pulled by the cramp or spasm.
    • Massage the painful muscle with an ice pack for 20 minutes.
    • If these are heat cramps (occurring during exercise on a hot day), give lots of water to drink in addition to stretching the muscle and an ice pack.
    • Future attacks may be prevented by daily stretching exercises of the heel cords (stand with the knees straight and stretch the ankles by leaning forward against a wall).  Also give the feet more room to move at night by placing a pillow under the covers at the foot of the bed.
  2. Treatment For Strained Muscles From Excessive Use:
    • Massage the sore muscles with ice for 20 minutes several times on the first 2 days.
    • Give acetaminophen (e.g. Tylenol) or ibuprofen for pain relief.
    • If stiffness persists more than 48 hours, have your child relax in a hot bath for 20 minutes twice a day, and gently exercise the involved part under water.
  3. Expected Course:  Muscle cramps usually last 5 to 30 minutes.  Once they resolve, the muscle returns to normal quickly.  A strained muscle hurts for 2 or 3 days.  The pain often peaks on day 2.
  4. Call Your Doctor If:
    • Muscle cramps occur more frequently.
    • Child develops a limp, a swollen joint, or a fever.
    • Pain caused by work or exercise persists longer than 7 days
    • Pain becomes worse.
    • Your child becomes worse or develops any of the "Call Your Doctor" symptoms.

Disclaimer: This information is not intended be a substitute for professional medical advice. It is provided for educational purposes only. You assume full responsibility for how you choose to use this information.

Pediatric SelfCareNavigator. Copyright © 2000-2004 Barton Schmitt, M.D. FAAP

Reviewed 8/2004

Revised 7/2002

 

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