We all know about growing pains in young adolescents, but could pain at the front of their knee be something more serious?
Osgood Schlatter Syndrome (OSS) – is a painful condition common in active adolescents. It is more common in boys than girls and is generally starts between the ages of 8-15. OSS pain can be vague at first with gradual increase of pain and swelling at the front of the lower leg (tibia) that is worse after sport or kneeling. Pain will fluctuate initially but can become more persistent if not treated.
It happens due to repeated stress on the tibial tuberosity (or tibial tubercle) – the part where the tendon linked to the quadriceps muscle joins into the lower leg – the patellar tendon. The bone becomes inflamed and can break up at this attachment point.
Treatment consists of rest, icing, modifying aggravating activities and PHYSIOTHERAPY! If the correct management is followed, prognosis is good and a full recovery is expected. Depending on severity, the child may have a lasting protuberance or bump from increased bone growth at the tibial tuberosity below the knee.
For support or advice, please contact our physios for specialist assistance.
Reference sources;
Title: What is the best treatment for Osgood-Schlatter disease? Source: https://pdfs.semanticscholar.org/4071/6e9571d8da6461e9f867a50967382f055127.pdfhttps://www.physiopedia.com/images/e/e4/Osgood_schlatters_syndrome_2007.pdf
Read time: 5 minutes & 20 Minutes