Osgood-Schlatter Disease: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

What is Osgood-Schlatter Disease?

Osgood-Schlatter Disease is a traction apophysitis of the tibial tuberosity, typically seen during growth spurts. The repetitive stress of pulling on the growth plate can lead to inflammation, swelling, and sometimes a noticeable bump at the site.

Causes of Osgood-Schlatter Disease

Growth Spurts

• During rapid growth, bones, muscles, and tendons grow at different rates, leading to tension at the growth plate.

High-Impact Sports

• Activities like basketball, soccer, gymnastics, and running increase stress on the patellar tendon and tibial tuberosity.

Repetitive Overuse

• Frequent jumping, squatting, or running can exacerbate strain on the knee joint and surrounding structures.

Symptoms of Osgood-Schlatter Disease

• Knee Pain: Pain localized at the tibial tuberosity, worsened with activity.

• Swelling: Mild to moderate swelling at the site of irritation.

• Bony Lump Formation: A prominent bump may develop at the tibial tuberosity.

• Tenderness: Sensitivity to touch over the affected area.

• Stiffness: Painful movement, particularly during activities that involve kneeling, running, or jumping.

Diagnosing Osgood-Schlatter Disease

Clinical Assessment

• Thorough examination of the knee to identify pain, swelling, and the characteristic bony bump.

• Review of activity level and symptom history.

Imaging

• X-rays: Sometimes used to confirm the diagnosis or rule out other conditions. They may show fragmentation or irregularity at the tibial tuberosity.

Treatment for Osgood-Schlatter Disease

Non-Surgical Treatments

1. Activity Modification

   • Reduce activities that aggravate symptoms, such as running or jumping, but maintain low-impact exercises.

2. Physical Therapy

   • Stretching Exercises: Focus on the quadriceps, hamstrings, and calf muscles to reduce tension on the patellar tendon.

   • Strengthening Exercises: Gradually strengthen the surrounding muscles to support the knee.

   • Manual Therapy: May include soft tissue techniques to reduce muscle tension.

3. Pain Management

   • Ice Therapy: Apply ice to the tibial tuberosity for 15-20 minutes after activity.

   • Anti-Inflammatory Medications: NSAIDs may help reduce inflammation and pain.

4. Knee Supports

   • Use of a knee strap or brace to offload tension from the patellar tendon.

Surgical Treatment

• Rarely needed. Surgery may be considered in severe cases where a bony fragment has not resolved after growth completion.

Recovery and Prognosis

• Symptoms typically resolve once the growth plates close, around ages 14-18.

• Most young athletes can continue participating in sports with proper management.

Preventing Osgood-Schlatter Disease

• Warm-Up and Cool-Down: Always prepare the body before and after physical activity.

• Stretching Routine: Regular flexibility exercises for the lower limbs.

• Gradual Progression: Avoid sudden increases in activity intensity.

• Appropriate Footwear: Ensure proper support to reduce strain on the knee.

Expert Care at Palms Physiotherapy & Allied Health

If your child is experiencing knee pain or symptoms of Osgood-Schlatter Disease, our team can help with tailored assessments and treatment plans to promote recovery and maintain physical activity.