Benign nocturnal idiopathic leg pain: A qualitative study of experiences of New Zealand caregivers

Abstract

AIMS: Benign nocturnal idiopathic leg pains (BNILP) are a common musculoskeletal ailment experienced by children. This study aims to explore the experiences of caregivers parenting children experiencing these night-time pains and what strategies are used to support them.

DESIGN: This research project used a qualitive approach with an interpretive description mode of analysis. Recruitment was via a jpeg flyer posted on public Facebook pages in the Hibiscus Coast, North Auckland. Data were collected during five semi-structured interviews conducted and recorded over Zoom. The data was then thematically analysed through an interpretive description process which allowed themes to evolve.

RESULTS: Three themes emerged from the interviews and data analysis processes. Theme one discussed the emotions that the caregivers are experiencing while parenting a child with BNILP. Theme two discussed what caregivers are dealing with when it comes to how the child responds and reacts to their pains. Finally theme three detailed the different strategies that caregivers are using to help their child with their pains and what support is available.

CONCLUSIONS: Parenting a child with BNILP has a similar emotional impact to that of parenting a child with chronic pain and parents find support is crucial. Caregivers have a proactive attitude towards helping their children and have built a resilience to aid them through these times. The New Zealand health care system is lacking in their education on this childhood ailment, and treatment offered is for the symptoms but does not address the cause. Parents are seeking out their own strategies for coping with the effects the experience is having on their children and seeking support from other parents with children experiencing BNILP. The results from this study led to the recommendation of more research into the cause and plausible treatment options for this, and the implementation of support groups for the caregivers of children with BNILP.