Osgood-Schlatter's Disease

The basics Osgood-Schlatter’s Disease is an injury to the apophysis (growth plare) at the tibial tuberosity, near the top of the shin bone, just below the kneecap. The tibial tuberosity is the insertion point for the powerful quadriceps muscle on the front of the thigh. Osgood-Schlatter’s Disease occurs when the growth plate undergoes separation or fragmentation, due to the high tension in this area in a young, growing athlete. It is most common between the ages of 10-15 when the athlete is going through a growth spurt. The bones are growing faster than the muscles and tendons and as a result, the tendon pulls away at the growth plate.

Signs and Symptoms Athletes with this condition often have a larger than normal bump at the tibial tuberosity and it may be painful to kneel down on the knee, to run, kick or jump.

Treatment Rest or modification of physical activities, a counterforce knee strap, stretching and strengthening exercises are helpful in reducing pain. Heat before activity and ice afterwards may be beneficial as well. The condition usually resolves once the athlete approaches skeletal maturity, but the bump may remain. Although very rare, immobilization or surgery may be needed for more severe cases.