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UK Orthopaedics
Health Information
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Osgood-Schlatter Disease
Description
Osgood-Schlatter disease is inflammation of the growth plate of the leg just below the knee at the tibial tubercle, a prominence just below the kneecap. The tibial tubercle is the bony attachment on the large bone of the lower leg (tibia) of the big, powerful thigh muscle (quadriceps). The growth plate is an area of relative weakness, and injury to it occurs due to repeated stress or vigorous exercise. It is a temporary condition of the tibial tubercle that is uncommon after age 16.
Common Signs and Symptoms
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A slightly swollen, warm and tender bump below the knee
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Pain with activity, especially straightening the leg against force (stair climbing, jumping, deep knee bends, or weight-lifting) or following an extended period of vigorous exercise in an adolescent. In more severe cases, pain occurs during less vigorous activity.
Treatment
Initial treatment consists of ice to relieve pain, stretching and strengthening exercises (particularly of the quadriceps and hamstrings), and modification of activities. Specifically, kneeling, jumping, squatting, stair climbing, and running on the affected knee should be avoided. The exercises can all be carried out at home for acute cases. Chronic cases often require a referral to a physical therapist or athletic trainer for further evaluation or treatment. A patellar band (a brace between kneecap and tibial tubercle on top of the patellar tendon) may help relieve symptoms. Surgery is recommended in the growing patient in the rare situation of failed conservative treatment. Surgery is
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