What is Osgood-Schlatter Disease?

Osgood-Schlatter disease is a common cause of knee pain in young people who are still growing. It occurs when the area just below the knee becomes irritated. This is where the kneecap tendon (patellar tendon) attaches to the shinbone (tibia).

Who Gets It?

This disease usually happens during growth spurts, a time when bones, muscles, and tendons grow quickly. Kids who play sports are more likely to get Osgood-Schlatter disease. Activities like running and jumping put extra pressure on their growing bodies. Still, even kids who aren't very active can get it.

What Are the Symptoms?

Kids with Osgood-Schlatter disease might feel:

• Pain and tenderness just below the knee
• Swelling in the same area
• Tight muscles in the thighs
• Severe pain that can cause limping

How Long Does It Last?

This disease usually resolves itself. It does so when the child stops growing. This typically occurs between the ages of 14 and 18.

How is It Diagnosed?

A pediatric physiotherapist or healthcare provider can diagnose this condition by:

• Reviewing your child’s symptoms and overall health
• Examining the knee for tenderness at the tibial tubercle
• Asking the child to do movements like walking, running, or jumping to see if these activities cause pain
• Taking X-rays to rule out other conditions and confirm the diagnosis

How is It Treated?

There are several ways to manage the pain and help the knee heal:

• Paediatric Physiotherapy for Osgood-Schlatter Disease : Stretching exercises for the quadriceps and hamstrings can help reduce pain and prevent recurrence. A paediatric physiotherapist can create a personalized treatment plan to strengthen and stretch the appropriate muscles.
• Medications: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen or naproxen can help reduce pain and swelling.
• Icing: Putting ice on the painful area can help reduce swelling. Do this a few times a day, especially after activities.
• Patellar Tendon Strap: A special band worn around the upper leg can help ease the strain on the knee.

Can It Be Prevented Osgood-Schlatter Disease?

While it’s not always possible to prevent Osgood-Schlatter disease, especially for kids who play sports, there are ways to lower the risk:

• Use the right safety gear during sports.
• Don’t let your child play through pain. If their knee hurts, they should rest.
• Encourage your child to warm up and stretch before sports and cool down after.

When Will It Go Away?

Most kids feel better once they finish their growth spurts—around age 14 for girls and 16 for boys. Surgery is rarely needed. Always follow your healthcare provider’s advice on when your child can return to sports. Starting too soon can bring back the pain.

Taking these steps can help your child manage Osgood-Schlatter disease.