Case 23: Unexplained Paediatric Limb Pain and Functional Recovery

A 12-year-old boy presented with a four-year history of severe lower-limb pain, marked hypersensitivity to touch, and significant difficulty weight-bearing. Extensive medical investigations—including blood and urine tests, X-ray, CT, and ultrasound—had failed to identify a cause. Over time, persistent pain and reduced mobility led to abnormal gait, sleep disturbance, emotional distress, and progressive weight gain. His mother expressed deep concern about long-term skeletal changes and guilt over her child’s prolonged suffering.

Paediatric movement assessment addressing long-standing limb pain and hypersensitivity, supporting improved gait, confidence, and participation in daily activities.

On assessment, the child demonstrated signs of systemic inflammation and swelling, elevated resting heart rate (~110 bpm), persistent involuntary muscle twitching, and pronounced protective movement patterns. Initial intervention focused on autonomic regulation, targeting sympathetic overactivity. Following this, heart rate reduced to approximately 80–90 bpm and involuntary movements settled.

Targeted treatment of the lower limbs began with the more symptomatic right leg. Midway through the session, the child reported a clear return of voluntary movement and improved control. On standing and walking reassessment, gait alignment improved significantly, swelling reduced, and both strength and mobility increased. After treating the left leg, walking became straighter and more stable. The child repeatedly expressed excitement at being able to move his legs freely, while his mother reported that no previous intervention over four years had produced such immediate functional change.

In a related follow-up context, teachers who had known the child for several years noted a dramatic reduction in school absences and improved participation. The child is now able to walk and run with peers, and his confidence and engagement have visibly improved.

This case highlights how prolonged unexplained pain in children can lead to secondary movement, emotional, and developmental consequences, and how addressing nervous system regulation and functional movement patterns may restore capacity where structural pathology is absent.

Clinical Practice: Heal Young Massage

Evidence-based remedial massage and movement rehabilitation services.