As parents, it's natural for us to feel concerned when our children complain of pain. It's important not to dismiss their discomfort, as it could be indicative of an underlying issue.
Here are three key steps to take when your child complains of pain, helping you navigate their discomfort with attentiveness and care.
“Tell me more”
When your child opens up about pain, it's crucial to encourage them to express themselves fully. Instead of brushing off their complaints or assuming it's a minor issue, take the time to sit down with them and say, "Tell me more about the pain.".
Sometimes children complain a lot in the very short term, so it can be tempting to just say “you’re fine, it’s nothing…”. You want to encourage a relationship where they don’t feel belittled or dismissed.
By actively listening and showing genuine interest, you create a safe space for your child to share their experiences. This step helps you gather valuable information about the pain they are experiencing.48 hour rule
Pain in children can sometimes be transient and resolve on its own. To assess the severity and persistence of the pain, observe your child's behavior over a 48-hour period.
During this time, monitor if the pain persists, worsens, or resolves completely. This observation period allows you to gauge whether the discomfort is a temporary issue or requires further attention.Limping or nursing:
Children may not always vocalize their pain consistently, especially if they fear consequences or worry about upsetting their parents. In such cases, pay close attention to their body language. Observe if they limp or favor a specific body part while walking or running.
Additionally, discreetly observe their behavior when they don't realize you're watching. They may unknowingly nurse the pain or display discomfort when engaged in activities. These subtle cues can provide valuable insights into the intensity and impact of their pain.
When your child complains of pain, it's important to approach the situation with empathy and attentiveness. By asking them to "tell me more" instead of dismissing their concerns, you create an environment where open communication thrives. Additionally, observing their pain for a 48-hour period and being mindful of signs such as limping or nursing the pain can help you assess the severity and persistence of the discomfort.
We consult children with their parents about their problem. Often it’s reasssuring for both the parent and the child to know that their problem will be fine. Often kids enjoy coming to the clinic as we like to make it as fun as possible and is often less daunting than visiting other medical centres. Always feel free to call or email us if you’re not sure.
