Osgood-Schlatter Disease
Osgood-Schlatter disease is an inflammation of the area below your kneecap called the tibial tubercle. There is pain and tenderness in this area because of the inflammation. It is most often seen in children and adolescents during the time of growth spurts. The muscles and cord-like structures that attach muscle to bone (tendons) tighten as the bones are becoming longer. This puts more strain on areas of tendon attachment. The condition may also be associated with physical activity involving running and jumping.
CAUSES
Osgood-Schlatter disease is most often seen in children or adolescents who:
Are experiencing puberty and growth spurts.
Participate in sports or are physically active.
RISK FACTORS
You may be at increased risk for
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Surgery is rarely needed. Treatment involves:
Medicines, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medicines (NSAIDs).
Resting the affected knee or knees.
Physical therapy and stretching exercises.
HOME CARE INSTRUCTIONS
Apply ice to the injured knee or knees:
Put ice in a plastic bag.
Place a towel between your skin and the bag.
Leave the ice on for 20 minutes, 2–3 times a day.
Rest as instructed by your health care provider.
Limit physical activities to levels that do not cause pain.
Choose activities that do not cause you pain or discomfort.
Take medicines only as directed by your health care provider.
Do stretching exercises as directed for your legs and especially the large muscles in the front of the thigh (quadriceps) as directed.
Keep all follow-up visits as directed by your health care provider. This is important.
SEEK MEDICAL CARE IF:
You develop increased pain or swelling in the area.
You have trouble walking or difficulty with normal activity.
You have a fever.
You have new or worsening