Osgood-Schlatter Disease

Osgood-Schlatter Disease
Osgood-Schlatter disease is a condition caused by repetitive
stress or tension on part of the growth area of the upper tibia
(the apophysis). It is characterized by inflammation of the
patellar tendon and surrounding soft tissues at the point
where the tendon attaches to the tibia. The disease may also
be associated with an injury in which the tendon is stretched
so much that it tears away from the tibia and takes a fragment
of bone with it. The disease most commonly affects
active young people, particularly boys between the ages of
10 and 15, who play games or sports that include frequent
running and jumping.
Symptoms
People with this disease experience pain just below the knee
joint that usually worsens with activity and is relieved by
rest. A bony bump that is particularly painful when pressed
may appear on the upper edge of the tibia (below the knee
cap). Usually, the motion of the knee is not affected. Pain
may last a few months and may recur until the child’s growth
is completed.
Diagnosis
Osgood-Schlatter disease is most often diagnosed by the
symptoms. An x ray may be normal, or show an injury, or,
more typically, show that the growth area is in fragments.
Treatment
Usually, the disease resolves without treatment. Applying ice
to the knee when pain begins helps relieve inflammation and
is sometimes used along with stretching and strengthening
exercises. The doctor may advise you to limit participation in
vigorous sports. Children who wish to continue moderate or
less stressful sports activities may need to wear knee pads for
protection and apply ice to the knee after activity. If there is
a great deal of pain, sports activities may be limited until discomfort
becomes tolerable.