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I read that back pain in children is always something serious and as parents, we shouldn't wait to take the kids to the doctor. But I can't afford to run my kids into the clinic for every ache and pain. How do we know it isn't just growing pains?

There are some studies that support the idea that serious causes of back pain in children can be missed or diagnosed late. That's unfortunate but it can happen. Most of the time, with early examination and testing, any serious underlying cause of back pain in children and teens can be identified and treated quickly. Sometimes, conditions such as infections, tumors (benign or malignant), or rheumatic conditions causing back pain present with vague, diffuse symptoms. The child can't put a single finger on the owie or tell the parent exactly where it hurts. Children don't always have the necessary language skills to describe all of their symptoms. If the parent can't see or feel anything wrong, and there's no fever or swelling, it's easy to assume it may be growing pains or something passing. And, in fact, many times, low back pain in children is nonspecific (unknown cause). After waiting 24- to 48-hours, the pain is gone. Anything that lasts longer than 48-hours or is accompanied by other suspicious signs (e.g., diarrhea, constipation, fever, nausea, swelling, red streaks or rash of any kind) should be investigated by a medical doctor. Most serious causes of back pain are progressive -- that means over time, the disease will advance until it becomes clear just what is the underlying condition. But, it's best to get an accurate diagnosis sooner than later. Early intervention is the key to the best outcomes.

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