Knee Conditions and Treatments

Osgood-Schlatter Disease

Osgood-Schlatter disease is a painful enlargement of the bump of the shin bone (tibia) just below the knee. This bump is called the tibial tuberosity. The tendon from the kneecap (patella) inserts here. Osgood-Schlatter disease is most often seen in children between the ages of 10 and 15, is more common in males and appears during a period of rapid growth.

Osgood-Schlatter disease is diagnosed by a history and physical examination of the knee. X-rays usually show an enlarged tibial tuberosity, and may also show irregular or loose bony fragments from the tibial tuberosity.

Causes

Osgood-Schlatter disease is caused by repetitive injury to, and small avulsions of the bone-tendon junction, where the patellar tendon inserts into the tibial tuberosity. It can be caused by overuse of the knee in normal childhood and sporting activities, usually when muscles are too tight in the front of the thigh, the back of the thigh, or in the calf.

Symptoms

• Painful bump or bony enlargement at the top of the shin bone.
• The pain will sometimes come and go and is usually worse with activity.

Treatment

Non-operative
The treatment of Osgood-Schlatter disease begins with resting or doing activities that do not cause knee pain. Icing may be recommended. Occasionally, bracing or even casting may be advised. Stretching is very important part of the treatment.

The goal of rehabilitation is to return you to your sport or activity as soon as safely possible. Return to sports or activity will be determined by how your knee recovers, and how you feel.