Osgood-Schlatter disease is an overuse condition or injury of the knee that causes pain and swelling below the knee area over the shin bone in growing children and adolescents.
Osgood-Schlatter disease is characterized by inflammation of the patellar tendon and surrounding soft tissues. It is caused by the constant pulling of the patellar tendon on the area below the knee where the tendon attaches.
Osgood-Schlatter disease is seen in the growing child and adolescent, particularly those who participate in athletics. This is an age where the bones are typically growing faster than the muscles and tendons. As a result, the muscles and tendons have a tendency to become tight.
Osgood-Schlatter disease is most often seen in preteen and teenage boys from 10 to 15 years old. It is common in young athletes who play games or sports that involve running, jumping, or going up and down stairs. Adolescent athletes who are affected are most often involved in football, soccer, basketball, gymnastics, or ballet.
The following are the most common symptoms of Osgood-Schlatter disease. However, each adolescent may experience symptoms differently. Symptoms may include:
Tenderness below the knee
Swelling below the knee
Limping (may worsen following jumping activities)
The symptoms of Osgood-Schlatter disease may resemble other conditions or medical problems of the knee. Always consult your adolescent's doctor for a diagnosis.
In addition to a complete medical history and physical examination, diagnostic procedures for Osgood-Schlatter disease may include:
X-rays. A diagnostic test that uses invisible electromagnetic energy beams to produce images of internal tissues, bones, and organs onto film. X-rays may be performed to rule out other lesions.
Specific treatment for Osgood-Schlatter disease will be determined by your adolescent's doctor based on:
Your adolescent's age, overall health, and medical history
The extent of the condition
Your adolescent's tolerance for specific medications, procedures, or therapies
Expectations for the course of the condition
Your opinion or preference
The goal of treatment is to control the knee pain and limit your teen's activities that could aggravate the condition. Treatment may include:
R.I.C.E. (rest, ice, compression, and elevation)
Medications (anti-inflammatories for discomfort and swelling)
Elastic wrap or a neoprene knee sleeve around the knee
Activity restrictions
Physical therapy (to help stretch and strengthen the thigh and leg muscles)
Osgood-Schlatter disease often resolves with time. Rarely is surgery required for this condition.