What is Osgood-Schlatter Disease?
Osgood-Schlatter is a common condition in active, growing teenagers. Pre-teens and young teens (between 11-14 years old) are often affected by Osgood-Schlatter disease due to the bones growing fast at this age. During growth spurts, the muscles around the knee can become very tight, and a bump just below the knee cap (the patella) becomes visible. It's thought Osgood-Schlatter is caused by repetitive strain and overuse of the knee, and more common in activities that involve jumping like basketball, soccer and gymnastics.
Diagnosis is based on the clinical features of the disease and on diagnostic imaging. Particularly in unilateral cases of Osgood-Schlatter disease, plain radiographs of the knee are recommended to rule out other conditions such as fractures or infections. Physiotherapists can treat the condition without scans but it is recommended for children under the age of 18 years, to have a scan to confirm the condition.
Symptoms
- Pain and discomfort
- Swelling
- Tenderness
- Lump underneath the knee cap
Treatment
The R.I.C.E.R protocol is perfect for Osgood-Schlatter:
R - Rest the knee from the painful activity
I - Ice the knee for 15 minutes, every couple of hours
C - Compress the painful area with Tubigrip
E - Elevate the leg tor reduce swelling
R - Refer to a physiotherapist
Most teens grow out of Osgood-Schlatter when they've stopped growing between 16-20 years old. Following the R.I.C.E.R protocol can help treat the pain in the knee at home. If the knee remains uncomfortable or painful, book an assessment with one of our physiotherapists. We will assess how the knee is moving and any factors that may be contributing to the problem during the growth spurt. Treatment can involve a range of techniques such as massage, joint movements, stretches and strengthening exercises and even shockwave therapy.
Patients not responding to conservative treatment for six months (approximately 10% of all patients) should then undergo radial shock wave therapy for Osgood-Schlatter disease treatment. - EMS Dolorclast
Unsure whether it is Osgood-Schlatter? A free initial assessment with one of our physiotherapists, allows us to do a thorough assessment on the knee, diagnose and offer treatment options to relieve the symptoms.
- Back In Motion Brighton
Reference: EMS Dolorclast: https://www.ems-dolorclast.com/indications/osgood-schlatter-disease