Osgood-Schlatter Disease

Osgood-Schlatter Disease

John Miller Physiotherapist

Article by John Miller

Osgood-Schlatter Disease

Osgood-Schlatter Disease, also recognised as tibial tuberosity apophysitis, affects adolescents experiencing growth spurts. It manifests as inflammation at the growth plate of the tibial tuberosity, where the patella tendon links to the shinbone. Unlike sudden injuries, Osgood-Schlatter Disease stems from overuse, especially in sports.

Recognising the Symptoms

Adolescents might feel pain and tenderness at the tibial tuberosity, exacerbated by activities like running, jumping, or even kneeling. Symptoms may include swelling in the area, quadriceps weakness, and in some cases, a visible lump. Around 20-30% may experience these symptoms in both knees. See more: Adolescent Leg Injuries.

The Root Causes

The condition occurs when repetitive movements strain the developing tibial tuberosity. During growth, the tibial tuberosity progresses from cartilage to bone, becoming vulnerable to injury in the apophyseal stage. The quadriceps muscle’s pull can outpace the bone’s ability to cope, leading to the characteristic pain of Osgood-Schlatter.

Osgood Schlatter’s Disease
Osgood-Schlatter Disease Illustration

Who’s at Risk?

Osgood-Schlatter’s often targets boys aged 11-15 and girls 8-13, particularly those engaged in physical activities that involve extensive use of the quadriceps. Activities like basketball, netball, football, running and gymnastics are common culprits.

Diagnosis: A Simple Process

Typically, a clinical evaluation is sufficient to diagnose Osgood-Schlatter’s Disease. However, X-rays or MRI scans can rule out other conditions or confirm the diagnosis if needed.

Symptom Management and Progression

While some may see quick relief, others with severe symptoms need careful management to prevent long-term damage to the growth plate. Chronic cases might lead to complications, making walking or running difficult.

Physiotherapy: The First Line of Defence

Most patients with Osgood-Schlatter Disease see improvement with physiotherapy, which can include various treatments.

Physiotherapy emerges as a crucial ally for those battling Osgood-Schlatter’s Disease, with a striking 90%+ success rate reported for non-surgical treatment methods. Typically, symptoms fluctuate over a 12 to 24-month span before full recovery is seen. The secret to to improve the adolescent’s active symptoms.

Adolescent receiving physiotherapy for Osgood Schlatter’s knee pain
Effective Physiotherapy For Adolescent Knee Pain

Shielding the Knee

At the onset of symptoms, it’s vital to immediately minimise activities that place heavy stress on the knees, such as jumping and running. Utilising an infrapatellar strap can effectively redistribute stress away from the affected area. Kinesiology tape also offers pain relief and lessens the load at the tender site. In extreme cases, crutches might be recommended, but always seek personalised advice from a physiotherapist regarding knee care.

Combating Inflammation

Ice packs and TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation) units can be powerful tools in reducing pain, often speeding up the return to sports. Applying ice is particularly beneficial post-exercise or while at home.

Nurturing Through Functional Training

Taking adequate rest is paramount in managing both the disease and associated pain. The decision to continue sports hinges on the severity of symptoms; hence, tailor your training load in consultation with a physiotherapist to ensure a safe and effective return to sports.

Therapeutic Exercises: Stretching, Massage & Foam Rollers

Tightness in the quadriceps, ITB, hamstrings, hip flexors, and calf muscles frequently contributes to the development of Osgood-Schlatter’s Disease. While your physiotherapist will recommend specific stretches, combining these with foam rolling and massage often yields superior results, particularly when stretches alone may exacerbate pain at the injury site.

Strengthening Strategies

To alleviate symptoms during the active phase of the disease, physiotherapists will tailor exercises to improve kneecap control and overall leg strength.

Support from Foot Arch Control & Orthotics

Inadequate foot biomechanics can intensify knee stress, thus exercises that bolster dynamic foot control are crucial. In certain cases, orthotics may be beneficial to counteract torsional stresses leading to knee injuries. However, consult with a physiotherapist or podiatrist, as opinions on their effectiveness vary, especially during the growth phases in adolescents.

Prognosis and Long-term Outlook

Osgood-Schlatter’s Disease is self-limiting, resolving with the maturation of the tibial growth plate. Some may experience discomfort during activities like kneeling, especially if there’s an enlargement due to the condition. The aim is to prevent permanent bone protrusion.

Despite the possibility of prolonged symptoms, the vast majority find relief through conservative treatment, and surgery is rarely a consideration.

Conclusion: Seek Professional Guidance

While Osgood-Schlatter Disease can be a challenging journey, it’s not one to travel alone. For tailored treatment and the best outcomes, professional advice from a dedicated youth knee physiotherapist is indispensable. They’ll guide you through recovery with personalised care, ensuring you’re on the path to returning to the activities you love.


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Knee Pain Causes

A Comprehensive Guide

Knee pain is often a symptom of underlying issues ranging from acute injuries to systemic health conditions. Identifying knee pain causes is essential for effective treatment. This guide offers an overview of potential culprits, providing a pathway to understanding and addressing your knee discomfort.

Knee Pain Causes
Knee Pain Causes

Knee Ligament Injuries

Ligament injuries, such as ACL and PCL tears, are significant knee pain causes. They can lead to instability and severe discomfort, requiring prompt medical evaluation.

ACL Injuries

An ACL injury is a common sports-related knee injury that can lead to long-term knee pain and require surgical intervention.

Knee Meniscus Injuries

Meniscus tears, often caused by twisting or turning quickly, are prevalent knee pain causes, with treatment options varying based on severity.

Kneecap Pain

Pain in the kneecap can arise from various conditions, affecting your ability to engage in daily activities comfortably.

Knee Arthritis

Arthritis is a leading cause of knee pain, particularly in older adults, with symptoms that can significantly impair quality of life.

Knee Tendon Injuries

Tendon injuries can result from overuse or sudden, high-impact activities, contributing to ongoing knee pain.

Muscle Injuries

Muscle strains and related conditions are common knee pain causes, especially among athletes and active individuals.

Knee Bursitis

Inflammation of the bursae can cause significant knee pain, often requiring targeted treatment to reduce symptoms.

Children’s Knee Conditions

Young athletes can experience specific knee conditions related to growth and activity levels.

Other Knee-Related Conditions

Various other conditions can lead to knee pain, necessitating a broad understanding of potential knee pain causes.

Knee Surgery

In some cases, surgical intervention may be the best option to address certain knee pain causes effectively.

Seek Professional Advice

For tailored information regarding your knee pain, consult a healthcare professional with experience in knee conditions, such as a knee physiotherapist, sports physician or knee surgeon. They can provide a personalised assessment and treatment plan to address your specific needs.

Knee Pain Products & FAQs

A variety of products can support knee pain management. Browse our selection and read our FAQs to learn more about how to alleviate knee discomfort. More info: Knee Pain Products & FAQs

With this guide, you’re better equipped to understand the various knee pain causes and take the first step towards recovery. Remember, early intervention by a skilled physiotherapist can significantly improve your outcomes and assist in returning you to a pain-free, active lifestyle.

Knee Pain FAQs

Knee pain is a widespread issue, impacting individuals of varying ages and lifestyles. Causes range from injuries and wear and tear to conditions like arthritis. This FAQ section aims to provide insights into knee pain, covering diagnosis, ligament issues, ACL injuries, meniscal injuries, age and arthritis concerns, and pain relief methods through exercise and treatment.

Feel free to click on the questions to for deeper discussions into each topic.

knee pain faqs
Knee Pain Faqs

Diagnosis Related

How Can I Determine If My Knee Injury Is Serious?

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How Can I Identify The Type Of Knee Injury I Have?

  • Discover how different knee injuries manifest and what signs to look for.

When Should I Seek a Physiotherapist or Doctor for My Knee Injury?

  • Find out the right time to consult professionals for your knee concerns.

Is Knee Clicking a Sign of a Serious Condition?

  • Understand what knee clicking indicates about your joint health.

When Should I Consider Getting a MRI for My Knee?

  • Learn about the circumstances when an MRI becomes necessary.

Why Has My Knee Suddenly Started Hurting?

  • Explore potential reasons behind sudden knee pain.

Why Does My Knee Hurt On The Inner Side?

  • Identify causes of inner knee pain and when to seek help.

Knee Ligament Related

What Are The Common Symptoms of a Torn Ligament in the Knee?

  • Recognise the signs of a torn knee ligament.

Can I Walk With A Torn Ligament In My Knee?

  • Understand the feasibility and risks of walking with a torn ligament.

ACL Related

What are the Consequences of Not Getting Surgery for an ACL Injury?

  • Learn about the long-term effects of untreated ACL injuries.

What Are The Symptoms Of An ACL Tear?

  • Identify the key signs of an ACL tear.

Meniscus Related

Is Surgery Necessary for a Meniscal Injury?

  • Discover when surgery is essential for meniscal injuries.

Can a Torn Meniscus Heal Without Surgery?

  • Find out if meniscal tears can heal naturally.

Age & Arthritis Related

At What Age Do Knee Problems Typically Begin?

  • Learn about the onset age for common knee problems.

What are the Common Symptoms of Arthritis in the Knee?

  • Identify arthritis symptoms in the knee.

Running Related

What are Some Ways that Runners Can Reduce Knee Stress?

  • Explore methods for runners to minimise knee stress.

Knee Treatment & Exercise Related

Is Walking Good For Knee Pain?

  • Understand the benefits of walking for knee pain.

What are Some Effective Ways to Relieve Knee Pain?

  • Discover various methods to alleviate knee pain.

How Much Walking is Recommended for Individuals with Knee Pain?

  • Learn the ideal walking duration for those with knee pain.

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