What is Osgood-Schlatter's disease?

Osgood-Schlatter's disease usually occurs in teenagers. It causes pain and swelling just below the knee. It is named after the two people who first described it.

It is not serious and usually goes away in time.

What are the symptoms?

The main symptom is pain just below the kneecap (patella). The severity of the pain tends to flare up and down. It is usually worse during, and just after, activity. It tends to ease with rest.

The pain typically lasts a few months, but sometimes persists until you have finished growing. This means that in some cases it can last up to two years.

A small, tender, bony bump may develop a few centimetres below the kneecap. This occurs where the patella ligament attaches to the tibia (shin bone).

The small bump is permanent, although in time it becomes painless. The actual knee joint is not affected, so knee movements are normal.

What causes Osgood-Schlatter's disease?

The condition is caused by overuse of the powerful thigh muscles (quadriceps), pulling on the attachment point of the patellar tendon on the tibial tuberosity during activities such as football, rugby, athletics, hockey and other sports.

It can also appear during a child's growth spurt and has often been called "growing pains".

Management of symptoms

Rest

If the problem is very acute and severe, often one week of rest will allow the symptoms to settle.

Otherwise, you should participate in activity as comfort allows.

Ice

Ice (or cold therapy) can be applied to the knee, particularly following sport or activity, to help reduce pain and inflammation.

Knee support

A knee support may help reduce tension on the knee.

Vitamin E

Vitamin E may be recommended as a wound healer.

Stretching

Stretch tight muscle groups using gentle static stretches held for 30 seconds to one minute, three to five times daily.