Osgood-Schlatter Disease
Osgood-Schlatter disease, also known as Osgood-Schlatter syndrome, is a condition that commonly affects adolescents, especially those who are physically active and involved in sports. It is characterized by inflammation of the patellar ligament, which connects the kneecap (patella) to the shinbone (tibia).
Osgood-Schlatter disease typically occurs during periods of rapid growth, often between the ages of 10 and 15 in boys and 8 and 13 in girls. The main symptom is pain and swelling just below the kneecap, where the patellar tendon attaches to the shinbone. The pain may worsen with activities that involve running, jumping, or bending the knee.
Cause of Osgood-Schlatter Disease
The exact cause of Osgood-Schlatter disease is not fully understood, but it is believed to be related to the stress placed on the developing bones and tendons during periods of growth. Factors such as overuse, muscle imbalances, and tightness in the quadriceps muscles may contribute to the condition.
Osgood-Schlatter Disease Treatment
Treatment for Osgood-Schlatter disease typically involves rest, ice, and anti-inflammatory medications to alleviate pain and reduce swelling. Physiotherapy exercises may be recommended to strengthen the quadriceps and improve flexibility. In most cases, the condition resolves on its own as the individual completes the growth phase, but symptoms during growth can certainly be managed.
It's important for individuals experiencing knee pain such as this to consult with a healthcare professional, such as a doctor or physiotherapist, for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate management.
Osgood-Schlatter Lesions
Overview of Osgood-Schlatter Lesions
Osgood-Schlatter lesion is an osteochondritis that occurs at the growth plate of the tibial tuberosity (superior shin bone).
This causes pain at the point where the tendon attaches to the bone resulting in a traction on the soft apophysis of the bone following overuse.
Repeated contraction of the quadriceps muscle mass may cause softening and partial avulsion of the developing secondary ossification centre of the shin bone.
This condition is extremely common in adolescents at the time of the growth spurt. It is most common in girls of about 10-12 years and boys of about 12-15 years.
It is usually associated with a high level of physical activity, especially in sports involving running and jumping, such as basketball, football or gymnastics.
Its long-term consequence may be thickening and prominence of the tibial tuberosity of the shin bone.
Osgood-Schlatter Presentation
Tenderness over the tibial tuberosity of the shin bone on palpation and worsens during high-level physical activity.
Increases bony protuberance at the tibial tuberosity.
Tightness of the surrounding knee muscles, especially the quadriceps.
Resisted quadriceps contraction is painful.
Predisposing factors: subtalar pronation (flattened feet during walking).
Osgood-Schlatter Lesion Treatment
Symptomatic management: applying ice to the region.
Muscle release – especially the quadriceps as tight quadriceps may predispose to this condition.
Exercises: quadriceps stretching program, lower body strengthening program as pain allows.
Activity and load management – there is no need to rest completely. Pain is the main guide as to the limitation of activity.
Biomechanics correction strategies.
Prognosis
Symptoms may persist for up to 2 years.
