Osgood-Schlatter disease

Osgood-Schlatters is a common cause of knee pain that affects children and adolescents. It is thought to be an inflammation of the area just below the knee where the quadricep muscle attaches to the tibia (lower leg bone).  It generally occurs during a growth spurt and is often associated with a high level of physical activity. Basically, the body can’t keep up with the stress put through the area and the quadricep muscle starts to pull on the tibia. Ouch!!!

Who and why?

• Can be due to a growth spurt
• Gender – boys are generally more susceptible than girls
• The condition tends to affect boys about 13 to 14 years old while girls are often aged 10 to 11.
• Exercise – active children, particularly those engaged in sports where a lot of running and jumping is required.

The symptoms of Osgood-Schlatter can include…

• Pain in the front of the knee
• Pain when straightening the knee or with bending it, like in squatting
• Pain on running
• Pain on going up and down stairs
• Pain that settles after rest
• A swollen tibial tuberosity (front of the leg bone, just below the knee)
• Red and inflamed skin over the tibial tuberosity

How can an Osteopath help?

• Accurate diagnosis and implementation of management plan

• Through gentle joint mobilisation and muscle tension release we can help reduce the effects of extra strain put through the knee and hip joints.

• Osteopathy may also be able to help with lymph and venous (vein) drainage to reduce inflammation and pain in the area.

• By ensuring the joints and muscles of the pelvis, knee and lower limb are working well, Osteo treatment may help encourage optimal biomechanics to help reduce pain.
• Give take home stretches and strengthening exercises for the quadricep and hip muscles.

For more information click here for an easy to read info sheet from the Royal Childrens Hospital.
If you are concerned your child might be having some knee issues contact us for an individualised assessment and management advice.