Understanding Osgood-Schlatter Disease

If you've noticed a painful lump just below your child's knee you might be dealing with Osgood-Schlatter disease. This common condition, particularly among active adolescents, can cause pain and tenderness at the knee joint.

What is Osgood-Schlatter Disease?

Osgood-Schlatter disease is a condition that affects the knee, specifically the area just below the kneecap where the patella tendon attaches to the tibia. It is common in those that are skeletally immature i.e teenagers and occurs during maturation of the bone often at the age of 10-12 in girls and 12-14 in boys.

It is characterised by inflammation of the growth plate at this attachment point, resulting in a painful lump that can be particularly bothersome during physical activities. This condition is most common in adolescents who are going through a growth spurt, particularly those that are active and involved in sports like football, volleyball, gymnastics, basketball, and running.

Causes and Risk Factors:

The exact cause of Osgood-Schlatter disease involves a combination of factors:

• Growth Spurts: Rapid bone growth during adolescence puts extra stress on the knee.

• Repetitive Stress: Activities that involve running, jumping, or kneeling can aggravate the area.

• Muscle Tightness: Tight quadriceps or hamstrings can contribute to the condition by placing additional strain on the knee.

Repeated traction of the patellar tendon on the developing shin bone (tibial tuberosity), leads to inflammation and pain.

Symptoms to Watch For:

Recognising the symptoms of Osgood-Schlatter disease is crucial for timely intervention. Common signs include:

• Pain just Below the Kneecap

• Pain that worsens with activity

• A lump at the knee

• Tension of the Quadricep muscle

Diagnosing Osgood-Schlatter Disease

Diagnosis can often be done by an osteopath based o n the case presentation dn examination findings, X-rays may also be used for confirmation however are often not needed.

Osteopathic Treatment Options

Osteopathy offers a wholistic approach to managing Osgood-Schlatter disease, focusing on both symptomatic relief and long-term prevention. Here’s how osteopathy can help:

• Manual Therapy: Techniques such as osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT) can help relieve muscle tension and improve joint function and mobility. Osteopathy techniques can help decrease the load placed on the knee joint.

• Improving Biomechancis: Osteopaths look at your whole body and can help ensure that there is proper load transfer through your knee to avoid putting extra strain on the knee joint.

• Stretching and Strengthening Exercises: A tailored exercise regimen can address muscle imbalances and improve knee mobility.

• Education and Lifestyle Modifications: Guidance on activity modifications and proper routines can reduce the risk of recurrence.

Managing Osgood-Schlatter Disease at Home

In addition to professional treatment, several home care strategies can be beneficial:

• Rest and Ice: Reducing activity and applying ice can help manage pain and swelling.

• Over-the-Counter Pain Relief: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help alleviate discomfort.

• Proper Footwear: Supportive shoes and orthotics can provide additional knee support.

Osgood-Schlatter disease, while common and often manageable, requires attention and appropriate care. By understanding the condition and exploring Osteopathic treatments, you can effectively manage symptoms and help prevent future issues. If your child is experiencing symptoms of Osgood-Schlatter disease, don't hesitate to contact Tugun Osteopathy for a personalised assessment and treatment plan.

For more information on Osteopathy check out our page here or to schedule a consultation, reach out to us on 0405 640 786.