Osgood Schlatter Disease

Quick facts about Osgood Schlatter Disease, the symptoms, possible causes behind it and treatment.

WHAT IS OSGOOD SCHLATTER DISEASE?

Osgood Schlatter Disease is an overloading and inflammation of the point where the patellar tendon meets the lower leg (the growth zone). It mainly affects boys aged 10-16, but also occurs among girls who take part in a lot of sport. The problem gets better spontaneously and the prognosis is good, but it may take a number of years to heal completely.

POSSIBLE CAUSES

The exact cause is not known, but the pain is often accentuated if a lot of exercise is done without rest and recovery periods. Most often experienced by adolescents during and after growth spurts.

SYMPTOMS

Pain at the point where the tendon meets the shinbone
Swelling and tenderness at the point where the tendon meets the shinbone
A bulge may appear at the point where the tendon attaches

TREATMENT

A knee brace for relieving pressure and warmth
Reduce the amount of weekly training sessions and competitions
Alternative training (e.g. wet-vest training in a pool or cycling)
Treatment with heat and cold
Stretching
Insoles and good footwear