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What Causes Bilateral Calf Pain,painful Ambulation And Positive Pedal Pulses?

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Posted on Thu, 20 Mar 2014
Question: I have a seven year old with c/o bilateral calf pain, ambulation is painful, positive pedal pulses with questionable positive homans sign...could this be growing pains or is a visit to the ER necessary? I live an hour and a half from the nearest childrens hospital.
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Answered by Dr. Eric Goldstein (23 minutes later)
Brief Answer: Calf pain Detailed Answer: Hello. Thank you for your question. I am sorry your son is experiencing pain. The positive pedal pulses are very reassuring. I wouldn't make much of the questionable Homans sign. This is not a reliable test in general, and certainly when the response is questionable. The most likely diagnosis here would be growing pains, as you stated. If this is the case, I would expect your son to be able top ambulate soon, perhaps later today. Ambulation should be encouraged. I do not believe a visit to the ER in warranted. However, if he refuses to ambulate today, then again tomorrow, I recommend consulting with your doctor. Growing, though sometimes severe, should certainly not last that long.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Yogesh D
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Follow up: Dr. Eric Goldstein (15 minutes later)
may i continue motrin for the discomfort today or should I wait to see if the pain resolves itself. With the autism/sensory issues pain is almost always pronounced. Just wondering if something is better than nothing at this point.
doctor
Answered by Dr. Eric Goldstein (26 minutes later)
Brief Answer: Motrin Detailed Answer: The motrin every 6 hours if needed is fine. I know it feels like there should be something else to do. But, as you know, often observation is called for. Hang in there.
Note: For further queries related to your child health, Talk to a Pediatrician. Click here to Book a Consultation.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Yogesh D
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Dr. Eric Goldstein

Pediatrician

Practicing since :1999

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What Causes Bilateral Calf Pain,painful Ambulation And Positive Pedal Pulses?

Brief Answer: Calf pain Detailed Answer: Hello. Thank you for your question. I am sorry your son is experiencing pain. The positive pedal pulses are very reassuring. I wouldn't make much of the questionable Homans sign. This is not a reliable test in general, and certainly when the response is questionable. The most likely diagnosis here would be growing pains, as you stated. If this is the case, I would expect your son to be able top ambulate soon, perhaps later today. Ambulation should be encouraged. I do not believe a visit to the ER in warranted. However, if he refuses to ambulate today, then again tomorrow, I recommend consulting with your doctor. Growing, though sometimes severe, should certainly not last that long.