Assessments, diagnostic criteria and outcome measures for growing pains and persistent pain in the presence of restless leg syndrome in children: a scoping review

Objective: To identify the assessments, diagnostic criteria and outcome measures reported in peer-reviewed literature for children with growing pains and persistent lower limb pain in the presence of restless leg syndrome (RLS). Study design: Scoping review completed in line with Joanna Briggs Institute methodological guidance Data sources: Five online databases were searched-MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL, PsycINFO and AMED-for records up to 14 October 2024. Eligibility criteria: Records reporting on the use of assessments, diagnostic criteria or outcome measures in children (aged 0-18 years) with growing pains or persistent lower limb pain in the presence of RLS. Articles were required to have a sample size of ≥10 and be available in English language. Data extraction and synthesis: Data were extracted by two independent reviewers and analysed using descriptive statistics. Results: Following review of 19 806 records, 61 unique records were included. Most were observational cross-sectional or case-control designs. Assessments were varied and primarily focused on body functions and pain characteristics rather than activities and participation. There were 15 unique diagnostic criteria reported for growing pains with limited consistency and sometimes conflict between included items. Outcomes measures were only reported in eight records and typically measured pain presence and intensity. Conclusions: Assessment and subsequent diagnosis of growing pains and persistent pain in the presence of RLS lack consistency. Outcome measures were seldom used as most records were not designed to measure change over time. Standardised practices for assessment and management of these conditions may benefit clinicians and optimise patient care.