Osgood-Schlatter disease, also called "tibial tubercle apophysitis," is a common cause of knee pain in preteens and teens. It is caused by tugging of the patellar tendon in kids whose bones are still growing. This tugging causes inflammation at the "apophysis" (an area of bone growth) on the shinbone, which leads to pain in the front of the knee and often a painful bump on the shinbone. It is often seen during growth spurts, when tendons and muscles tend to become tight.
Diagnosing Osgood-Schlatter Disease
Osgood-Schlatter disease may be diagnosed with:
- Physical exam
- X-rays
- Ultrasound
Treating Osgood-Schlatter Disease
The specific treatment for your child will depend on many things, including their age, health, level of pain, and goals for sports and activity. Your physician will work with you, your child, and collaborate with physical therapy and other specialists to determine the best plan for your child.
For more mild cases, home care (including rest from sports, icing the affected area, and home stretching and strengthening exercises) can be enough to treat the pain.
For more severe pain, physical therapy is often helpful to improve flexibility and strength and to reduce inflammation and pain. Bracing of the patellar tendon can also help reduce pain during sports.
In almost all cases, this condition resolves with time when your child is done growing. Kids rarely need surgery for Osgood-Schlatter.