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The Hawkins Institute

It’s time to re think Growing Pains

For generations, children experiencing recurring leg and foot pain have been told the same thing: "It's just growing pains." But what does that actually mean? The truth is, "growing pains" is not a medical diagnosis. It is a label, a non conclusive way to explain away pain that is often poorly understood, under-investigated, and too easily dismissed. For many children, this pain is real, recurring, and sometimes debilitating. It can disrupt sleep, limit activity, affect confidence, and cause genuine distress. These children and their families deserve better answers. It is well documented that 30–40% of children experience so-called “growing pains” during their development. Yet, despite how common this is, there is still very little understanding of what these episodes of pain truly represent.

After 30 years of treating children with lower limb pain and discomfort, we are now in a position to explore this more deeply but we need your help. The aim is to gather enough information to identify patterns, improve understanding, and ultimately provide meaningful answers. Real pain deserves real focus.

Complete the research survey

We have created a short research survey to help us do exactly that. It takes less than five minutes to complete, and your input could make a significant difference. Please take a moment to fill it in and share it with others who may be able to contribute.

Thank you for helping us move closer to answers.

Take part here

We would love to hear from your child too

We have created a child-friendly questionnaire especially for them.

Click here

Why This Research Matters

The Hawkins Institute for Growing Pain Research and Treatment is leading one of the largest studies of its kind. Our goal is to move beyond assumptions and build a clearer, evidence-based understanding of childhood limb pain what causes it, how it affects children, and what can be done about it.

This is not just an academic exercise. The findings from this study will help shape how childhood pain is recognised, diagnosed, and aims to re address future treatment — creating better outcomes for children everywhere.

Who Can Take Part

This study is open to anyone who has experienced or witnessed the impact of childhood limb pain. We welcome contributions from:

  • Parents and guardians of a child with recurring leg or foot pain
  • Adults who experienced growing pains as a child

A Label, Not a Diagnosis

"Growing pains" is one of the most common reasons for childhood limb pain — yet it remains one of the least understood. It has become a label, not an explanation.

Pain Is a Signal

Pain is never meaningless. It is always a signal. Children who experience recurring pain deserve proper investigation, not reassurance alone.

Your Child Deserves More

Too many children are told they will "grow out of it." We believe every child experiencing pain deserves to be heard, assessed, and supported.

There Are Answers

Through evidence-based research, we can build a better understanding of childhood pain — and create clearer pathways to support and treatment.

Clinically led

Research driven

Improving outcomes for children worldwide

Dr Charlotte Hawkins (PhD) MSc FRSM

If your child is experiencing recurring leg, foot, or joint pain, our specialist team can assess, diagnose, and provide tailored treatment with clarity and care.

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The Infant Clubfoot Appeal

Through global outreach and charitable work, we have helped children access life changing treatment for lower limb conditions, improving mobility, confidence, and long term outcomes.

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