Osgood
Schlatter Disease: Knee Pain during Adolescence
Osgood Schlatter Disease
is a temporary condition related to the rapid growth spurts, combined
with rigorous activity, often seen in adolescent children. Osgood
Schlatter can occur to both boys and girls; however, it is more
commonly seen in boys who participate in sports that involve running,
kicking, and jumping. During these activities there is extra tension
placed on the tissue that connects the knee to the tibia. As a result,
the patellar tendon, or the tendon surrounding the kneecap, is pulled
away from the bone, which causes pain and swelling around the knee.
The main symptoms of Osgood Schlatter Disease are:
Pain around the knee and upper shinbone.
Tightness and limited movement of the knee
Pain worsens during activity, and lessens
during rest
Treatments for Osgood Schlatter Disease:
Unfortunately for young, active children the main treatment for
Osgood Schlatter Disease is rest. Your child should abstain from
the activities that contributed to his or her Osgood Schlatter Disease
in order to let it heal. You can also use over the counter non-steroidal
anti-inflammatory medicines (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen, to help
alleviate the pain of Osgood Schlatter Disease. Cold compresses
combined with elevation of the effected knee will also help speed
the recovery process along. If your child is still experiencing
pain from Osgood Schlatter Disease after a couple of weeks rest,
it may be necessary to use crutches to lessen the pressure placed
on the knee during walking.
