Osgood-Schlatter disease is a common cause of knee pain in growing adolescents. it is an inflammation of the area just below the knee where the patellar tendon attaches to the shinbone (tibia). This spot, called the tibial tuberosity, contains a growth plate that is made of cartilage and is softer than bone, making it susceptible to irritation from repetitive pulling by the quadriceps muscles.
Symptoms typically flare up during physical activities that involve running, jumping, or climbing stairs.
Bony Bump: A noticeable, tender swelling or protrusion on the shinbone just below the kneecap.
Localized Pain: Sharp pain during activity that settles into a dull ache during rest.
Tightness: Significant tightness in the quadriceps and hamstring muscles.
Tenderness to Touch: The "bump" is often extremely sensitive to direct pressure or contact.
Bilateral Symptoms: In about 20% to 30% of cases, both knees are affected, though one is usually more painful than the other.
Because Osgood-Schlatter is a clinical diagnosis, a physical exam by a healthcare provider is usually all that is needed.
Physical Exam
X-rays: Not always necessary, but used to rule out other issues. In Osgood-Schlatter, an X-ray may show the bump or even small "ossicles" (tiny bone fragments) where the tendon has pulled on the growth plate.
The primary goal is to manage pain and maintain flexibility until the adolescent reaches skeletal maturity.
Activity Modification: Reducing (not necessarily stopping) high-impact activities like basketball or gymnastics until the pain is manageable.
Ice: Applying ice for 15–20 minutes after physical activity to reduce inflammation.
Physical Therapy: Focusing on stretching the quadriceps and hamstrings to reduce the "pull" on the tibial tuberosity.
Patellar Tendon Strap: A small brace worn just below the kneecap to help distribute pressure away from the tibial attachment point.
Protective Padding: Wearing knee pads during contact sports to prevent direct hits to the sensitive bony bump.
Medication: Short-term use of NSAIDs (like ibuprofen) to manage acute flare-ups.
The good news is that the "disease" almost always disappears on its own once the teenager's bones stop growing, usually between the ages of 14 and 18. The bony bump, however, may remain permanent.