Osgood – Schlatter Disease

Osgood-Schlatter disease is a common condition that affects adolescents, typically during periods of rapid growth. It is an overuse injury that occurs in the growth plate of the tibial tuberosity, which is located just below the knee on the front of the shinbone (tibia). This condition is most prevalent in children who are active in sports that involve running, jumping, and swift changes in direction, such as soccer, basketball, gymnastics, and track and field.

Causes

Osgood-Schlatter disease is caused by repetitive stress and tension on the growth plate at the tibial tuberosity. During periods of rapid growth,

the bones, muscles, and tendons may not grow at the same rate, leading to increased strain on the growth plate. This can result in inflammation and, in some cases, small fractures.

Symptoms

– Pain and tenderness at the tibial tuberosity (just below the knee).
– Swelling in the area.
– A visible bump at the site of the pain.

– The pain typically worsens with activity, especially running, jumping, and kneeling, and improves with rest.
– In severe cases, the pain can be constant and limit the child’s ability to participate in sports.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis is typically made based on the history and physical examination. A healthcare provider will look for tenderness at the tibial tuberosity and may also assess the knee’s range of motion.

X-rays may be used to rule out other conditions or to confirm the diagnosis by showing swelling or fragmentation of the tibial tuberosity.

Treatment

– Rest: Limiting activities that aggravate the condition is crucial to allow the area to heal.
– Ice: Applying ice to the affected area can help reduce pain and swelling.
– Pain Relief: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen, can be used to manage pain and inflammation.
– Stretching and Strengthening Exercises: Stretching the quadriceps and hamstrings and strengthening the muscles around the knee can help relieve tension on the growth plate.

– Protective Padding: In some cases, a pad may be worn over the knee to protect it from further irritation.
– Physical Therapy: A physical therapist can guide a structured rehabilitation program to strengthen the knee and improve flexibility.
– Surgery: Very rarely, if symptoms persist after the growth plate has closed, surgery may be considered to remove any bone fragments or to smooth the tibial tuberosity.

Prognosis

Osgood-Schlatter disease usually resolves on its own once the child’s bones stop growing, typically by the end of adolescence.

However, the bony bump on the tibial tuberosity may persist even after symptoms have resolved. In most cases, the condition does not lead to any long-term complications, but it can cause discomfort during physical activity while it is active.

Prevention

– Proper warm-up and stretching before activities.
– Gradually increasing the intensity of physical activity.

– Wearing appropriate footwear.
– Strengthening exercises for the legs to help distribute the stress on the knees more evenly.

While Osgood-Schlatter disease can be painful and frustrating, especially for active adolescents, it is a temporary condition that generally responds well to conservative treatment.

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