Growing pains typically feel like an ache or throbbing in the legs, which commonly occurs in the front of the thighs, calves, or behind the knees

. Usually, both legs hurt

. The pain might also feel like cramping

. Other characteristics of growing pains:

• The pain comes and goes over months or even years

• They typically strike in the late afternoon or evening and disappear by morning

• The pain may be intense enough to wake a child from sleep

• Some children may also experience abdominal pain or headaches

Growing pains are common in children ages 3 to 12

. Although they are called growing pains, there's no scientific evidence that growth hurts

. Overuse of muscles due to running, climbing, and jumping may be linked to growing pains