What is it?

This condition causes swelling and pain below the knee joint, where the patellar tendon attaches to the shinbone (tibia), a spot called the tibial tuberosity. The patellar tendon, which stretches over the kneecap, may also be inflamed.

In young children and adolescents who are still growing, Osgood-Schlatter disease is a common cause of knee pain.

Some children develop Osgood-Schlatter disease in both knees, while others develop it in just one knee.

Boys between the ages of 10 and 15 who play sports or games that require frequent running and jumping are most likely to develop Osgood-Schlatter disease.

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Juvenile osteochondrosis of lower extremity.

Additional names

This group contains additional names:
- Osgood-Schlatter disease

Signs & symptoms

Swelling and pain below the kneecap. When you run, jump, go up stairs, or walk up hills, the pain usually gets worse. Limping may be caused by severe pain.

Diagnosis

In most cases, no testing is required. An X-ray may be ordered by the health care provider to determine if there are any other problems with the knee.

Treatment

Rest and time are usually enough to cure Osgood-Schlatter disease.

If necessary, ice packs can be applied two to three times a day, 20 to 30 minutes at a time, after activity. Athletes' pain tolerance will determine the appropriate time to return to sports.

In cases where bone fragments have not healed, surgery is recommended.

☝️ This is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult with your physician before making any medical decision.

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