Live Q&A Chat Session by Paediatrician Dr. Valeria
What you’re describing sounds like it could be benign, especially if your daughter is very active during the day. However, a few possibilities come to mind:1. Growing Pains• Very common in children aged 3–12. • Usually occur in the evening or at night, often affecting both legs. • Children often describe aching, throbbing, or vibrating sensations. • Massage, warmth, and stretching often relieve the discomfort. • It typically doesn’t affect walking or daily activities.2. Overuse or Muscle Fatigue• If she’s running or jumping a lot, her muscles may be tired or sore at night. • This can cause strange sensations, sometimes described as “buzzing” or “shaky” legs.What You Can Try at Home:• Warm baths before bed. • Gentle stretching exercises in the evening. • Continue with gentle massage, if she finds it comforting. • Ensure she stays hydrated and has a balanced diet with enough iron, magnesium, and calcium.When to See a Doctor:• If the sensations worsen, start affecting her sleep or daily life, or involve weakness, swelling, or pain. • If you notice any involuntary movements, changes in walking, or if the symptoms only affect one leg.
March 26, 2025Live Q&A Chat Session by Paediatrician Dr. Valeria
Early identification of developmental delays in children is crucial for timely intervention. Here are some key early signs across different areas of development:1. Motor Skills• By 3–6 months: Poor head control, stiffness, or floppiness • By 9 months: Not sitting without support, difficulty reaching for objects • By 12 months: Not crawling, standing, or pulling up • By 18 months: Not walking independently2. Speech & Language• By 6 months: Lack of babbling or cooing • By 12 months: No words or gestures like waving or pointing • By 18 months: Fewer than 10 words, not responding to their name • By 24 months: Not using two-word phrases or very limited vocabulary3. Social & Emotional Skills• By 6 months: Limited eye contact, no smiles • By 12 months: Lack of interest in people, no response to name • By 18 months: No pretend play, little interest in others • By 24 months: Avoids social interactions, doesn’t copy actions or words4. Cognitive & Problem-Solving Skills• By 12 months: Doesn’t explore objects, doesn’t follow simple instructions • By 18 months: Difficulty understanding simple words or commands • By 24 months: Doesn’t engage in simple problem-solving (e.g., using a toy in a new way)When to Seek Professional AdviceParents should consult a pediatrician or developmental specialist if:• Milestones are significantly delayed compared to peers • Regression occurs (losing skills previously acquired) • Child seems indifferent to surroundings or lacks interest in interaction • Persistent difficulties with movement, communication, or behaviorEarly intervention can make a significant difference. If in doubt, it’s always best to consult a professional sooner rather than later. Let me know if you need more details!
March 26, 2025