Osgood-Schlatter Disease is an overuse condition or injury of the knee causing pain and swelling below the knee area over the shin bone. The disease is caused by the constant pulling of the tendons of the patella, or kneecap.
Osgood-Schlatter Disease is common in adolescents, especially those who are active in sports. During adolescence, a child’s bones are usually growing at a faster rate than the muscles and tendons. Because of this, the muscles and tendons tend to become tight, causing swelling and pain in the knee area. Osgood-Schlatter Disease is most often diagnosed in boys from 10 to 15 years old who are involved in sports requiring running, jumping, or going up and down stairs.
Symptoms of Osgood-Schlatter Disease:
- Tenderness below the knee
- Swelling around the knee
- Limping, especially after activities
Diagnosing Osgood-Schlatter Disease:
Your doctor will likely ask you many questions about your child’s activities and may perform a physical examination. Your child’s doctor may also want to order the following tests:
- X-rays
- Bone scans
- MRI
- Blood tests
Treatments for Osgood-Schlatter Disease:
Shriners Hospitals for Children® treatments for Osgood-Schlatter disease will be determined by the extent of the condition, and other factors specific to your child’s overall health and medical history. The goal of treatment is to control knee pain and limit your child’s activities that directly affect the condition. Treatment may include:
R.I.C.E. – Rest, ice, compression and elevation
Anti-inflammatory medication – Medication containing ibuprofen will reduce pain and swelling.
Elastic wrap – This will offer further support to the knee, especially during activities.
Restricted activities: Your child’s doctor may have them limit or temporarily stop sports or other activities that aggravate the condition.
Physical Therapy: Exercises to strengthen and stretch the thigh and leg muscles will help in the healing process.