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Osgood-Schlatter' s Disease
Medical Questions » Osgood-Schlatter' s Disease
| Name: Osgood-Schlatter' s Disease |
| Also known as: Apophysitis of the Tibial Tuberosity |
| Relatively common but minor knee condition of children and teenagers. |
Causes of Osgood-Schlatter' s Disease
At the top and front of the tibia (shin bone) in the lower leg, there is a lump just below the knee (the tibial tuberosity). The large patellar tendon runs from the tibial tuberosity up to the knee cap (patella) and through this is connected to the large muscles on the front of the thigh (quadriceps). When the knee is straightened the thigh muscles contract, pull on the patella, which pulls on the patellar tendon, which is attached to the tibial tuberosity, which pulls the tibia into position and straightens the knee. Children who are growing rapidly tend to have slightly softened bones, and in a child who exercises a great deal it is possible for the tibial tuberosity to be pulled slightly away from the softened growing area of the tibia behind it. This separation of the tibial tuberosity from the upper part of the tibia causes considerable pain and is called Osgood-Schlatter' s disease. |
Symptoms of Osgood-Schlatter' s Disease
The patient is usually a boy, a keen sportsman, and between 9 and 15 years of age, who develops pain, tenderness and sometimes an obvious swelling just below the knee. The pain is worse, or may only occur, whenever the knee is straightened, particularly when walking or running. The knee joint itself is pain-free. |
Tests for Osgood-Schlatter' s Disease
Diagnosis confirmed by X-rays that show the separation of the tibial tuberosity from the tibia. |
Treatment for Osgood-Schlatter' s Disease
Only treatment is time and rest. In severe cases, strapping or plaster and crutches may be necessary to rest the knee adequately.
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Complications of Osgood-Schlatter' s Disease of its treatment
None significant. |
Likely Outcome of Osgood-Schlatter' s Disease
Very good, but up to two months rest may be required. |
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