Osgood-Schlatter Disease

What is Osgood-Schlatter Disease?

Osgood-Schlatter disease is an overuse injury of the knee that typically affects children and adolescents experiencing growth spurts. Kids who are involved in running and jumping sports and other activities which involve swift change of direction are more prone. These include soccer, basketball, netball, ballet and football.

 What are the symptoms of Osgood-Schlatter Disease?

– Painful lump below the kneecap
– Swelling
– Tenderness below the kneecap

What is the treatment for Osgood-Schlatter Disease?

– This is usually resolving, and tends to improve when the child’s bones stop growing.
– Treatment includes a course of non steroidal anti inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
– In some patients, Osgood-Schlatter’s may last 2-3 years, but in most cases passes at the end of the growth spurt at 14-16 years old.
– Physical therapy can help with exercises to stretch the thigh’s quadriceps, which can reduce tension in the kneecap to patella tendon.