What is Osgood Schlatter Disease?

Osgood schlatter disease is inflammation of the patella tendon where it attaches to the tibial tuberosity just below the kneecap. This condition commonly affects adolescents who are going through a major growth spurt. There is often painful lumps just below the knee.

Cause of Osgood Schlatter disease:

• Coinciding with periods of growth spurts
• Commonly occurs in both girls and boys between the ages of 9 to 16
• More common in boys
• More common in very active children

Generally what causes this problem is when a child is growing very quickly. The muscles and tendons grow more slowly than the bones (Tibia and Fibula). Because of this the tendons are much tighter and cause a pulling tension at the attachment point.

Treatment:

A thorough clinical history and examination is important to make a correct diagnosis. It is important to make sure the foot to knee alignment is correct. This can be done through the use of orthotics and good controlling footwear.

Rest, icing the knee with a cold pack and altering sporting regime can be helpful in reducing the amount of pain.

This condition usually resolves once the growth spurt slows down.

If your adolescent child is suffering keen pain,  call Kew Foot Clinic 03 9853 6877 to discuss appropriate treatment.