What is it:
Osgood Schlatters disease is a very common cause of knee pain in children and young athletes usually between the ages of 10 and 15. It occurs due to a period of rapid growth, combined with a high level of sporting activity. Though it’s one of the most common causes of knee pain in adolescents, it’s really not a disease, but an overuse injury. OSD can be quite painful, but usually resolves itself within 12 to 24 months.
Important Facts:
These changes result in a pulling force from the patella tendon, on to the tibial tuberosity (bony protrusion at the top of the shin). This area then becomes inflamed, painful and swollen. This is frequent in younger people due to the remaining softness in their bones (from childhood). – OSD usually strikes active adolescents around the beginning of their growth spurts, the approximately 2-year period during which they grow most rapidly. Growth spurts can begin any time between the ages of 8 and 13 for girls, or 10 and 15 for boys. OSD has been more common in boys, but as more girls participate in sports, this is changing.
Statistics:
It typically strikes children from 11 to 15. One study suggests that 13% of all athletes suffer from OS disease.
Treatment Duration:
OSD can be quite painful, but usually resolves itself within 12 to 24 months.
Do’s & Don’ts:
This injury needs rest if it is to heal properly. – Only do as much exercise as it will allow without causing pain. – Weight bearing exercise will make it worse. Keep your sessions few and high quality rather than train every day. – Apply ice or cold therapy to the knee regularly throughout the day to reduce pain and inflammation and particularly following activity or sport. Ice should be applied at least three times a day for 10 to 15 minutes. – Do not get steroid injections as this may cause weakening of the infrapatellar ligament, scaring and fat necrosis.
Common Myths: – Not found
Jesse Elliott, DPT, Licensed Doctor of Physical Therapy with Siskiyou PT
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