Osgood-Schlatter Disease

Written By Andrew Alexander

What is it?

It is a common cause of knee pain in growing children & teenagers. It happens when the tendon that connects the kneecap to the shin bone pulls on a growth area called the tibial tuberosity. This usually is caused by repetitive stress from activities like running and jumping.

Common symptoms

  • Pain & tenderness just below knee cap

  • A noticeable bump over

the top of the shin bone

  • Pain worse with sports

or kneeling

  • improves with rest

Who Gets It?

  • Girls 8-12 Boys 12-15

  • More common in boys and in athletes

  • Often linked with growth spurts

How is it Treated? Do:

  • Balance strength program for prevention

  • Rest or modify activities

  • Ice

  • Stretching muscles in thighs and calves

  • Strengthen the muscles around the knee and hips (as guided by your Physiotherapist)

  • Taping or bracing

Avoid:

  • High-impact sports during painful flare-ups

  • Kneeling on sore area

How long does it last?

  • Self-limiting, 6-12 months, it my return with sequential growth spurts

  • Full recovery is common and permanent damage is rare

When to contact your Physiotherapist?

  • If pain does not settle or worsens

  • If swelling becomes large or persistent

  • If you cannot participate in daily activities

Andrew Alexander
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