An inflammation of the bony protrusion below the knee, Osgood Schlatters mainly affects boys aged 10 to 16 years old. The good news is that it clears up when they stop growing and the tendons become stronger, although it can occasionally continue into adulthood.
Symptoms of Osgood Schlatters disease:
- Swelling just below the knee
- Pain during and after exercise
- Pain when contracting the quadriceps muscles
If your child experiences any of these symptoms it is essential to see a sports injury specialist to get proper diagnosis, and rule out any other causes. Diagnosis will be based on a physical examination, and may also require x-rays to see the extent of the damage. Once diagnosis is confirmed, treatment will involve the following:
- Rest: This condition needs time to heal - avoid anything that causes pain
- Ice: Cold therapy can be used throughout the day
- Knee support or brace: this can reduce the tension on the knee and reduce pain
- Plaster cast: In extreme cases a plaster case may be used for up to three weeks to provide total rest and reduce pain
This is one condition in which exercise will not help improve the condition, so it is important for athletes to adapt their training during this period in order to avoid worsening the condition while still working on other aspects of their game.
