Osgood – Schlatter’s Disease

Osgood-Schlatter disease is a painful enlargement of the bump of the shin bone (tibia) just below the knee. This bump is called the tibial tuberosity. The tendon from the kneecap (patella) inserts here. Osgood-Schlatter disease is most often seen in children between the ages of 10 and 15 and usually appears during a period of rapid growth.

How does it occur?

Osgood-Schlatter disease is caused by overuse of the knee in normal childhood and sporting activities. It is possible that muscles are too tight in the front of the thigh, the back of the thigh, or in the calf.

What are the symptoms?

• Painful bump below the kneecap
• Bony enlargement at the top of the shin bone
• Pain that may come and go
• Persistent bump even after pain subsides

How is it diagnosed?

• Physical examination and symptom review
• X-rays showing an enlarged tibial tuberosity
• Possible irregular or loose bony fragments on imaging

How is it treated?

• Rest or activity modification
• Ice packs 20–30 minutes every 3–4 hours for 2–3 days or until pain resolves
• Elevate the knee using a pillow if swollen
• Possible use of a special padded brace
• Anti-inflammatory medication and recommended exercises

When can my child return to his or her sport or activity?

Return to activity depends on:

• No tenderness in the tibial tuberosity
• Full knee motion without pain
• Normal strength in the injured leg
• Ability to:
  • Jog and sprint straight ahead without limping
  • Do 45° and 90° cuts
  • Perform figure-of-eight runs (10- and 20-yard)
  • Jump on both legs and the injured leg without pain

How can Osgood-Schlatter disease be prevented?

Proper warm-up and stretching of the thigh, hamstring, and calf muscles

Limit activity at the first sign of the painful bump