OSGOOD-SCHLATTER DISEASE – PEDIATRIC KNEE PAIN
Osgood-Schlatter disease is a growth-related phenomenon that occurs in adolescence
athletes which is caused by a stress reaction where the patellar tendon attaches
the tibial tubercle. It is related to growth and growth spurts usually over a two-year
period of time. The primary symptoms of Osgood-Schlatter disease are swelling, pain,
and tenderness just below the knee over the tibial tuberosity, which is the prominent
bone just below the kneecap on the shinbone. Pain usually occurs with running, jumping,
hopping and/or kneeling. The affected area can become more prominent and very tender
to touch. The diagnosis of Osgood-Schlatter disease tear can be made by physical
examination by a physician and reliably confirmed with X-ray and/or MRI.
Recommendations:
- Consult a physician if you think you have a Osgood-Schlatter Disease
- Avoiding overuse is important, as is modifying the specific offending activity
- Rest is the most important part of the treatment program for Osgood-Schlatters Disease.
Decrease training program or exercise by 50 percent. If that does not cure the problem,
training/exercise should be decreased again by 50 percent.
- Warm up and stretch before, during, and after an activity, for muscle and tendon
flexibility
- Vigorous leg strengthening program and cross-training to build endurance and prevent
injuries due to fatigue
- Develop a Cross-training program to prevent repetitive running and jumping activities
- Use Knee supports
- Use
Foot Orthotics to help correct foot problems which may be contributing to Osgood-Schalteters
Disease