Our Health Library information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn more about their health. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein. Osgood-Schlatter disease is a knee problem that causes pain and swelling in the shinbone (tibia) just below the kneecap (patella). This is the spot where the patellar tendon attaches to a bony mound in the knee called the tibial tubercle. Older children and teenagers often get Osgood-Schlatter disease during a growth spurt. Certain young athletes, such as runners, gymnasts, and those who play soccer, football, or basketball, are more likely to have this type of knee pain. This problem can come back while your child is still growing, but it should stop when your child's growth spurt ends. Osgood-Schlatter disease may leave a painless bump on the bone that remains after the problem has gone away. Osgood-Schlatter disease is caused by too much stress on the muscles and tendons that support the knee. Repeated stress can cause the patellar tendon to pull away from the shinbone. This can make your child's knee hurt and swell. This kind of stress is more likely to happen during a growth spurt, when your child's leg bones are getting longer. Certain activities can also cause this to happen, such as running or sports that involve jumping (like basketball) or quick direction change (like soccer or football). Osgood-Schlatter disease usually affects only one knee, but it can affect both knees. It may cause pain and tenderness in front of the knee or mild swelling or a bump below the kneecap at the top of the shin. The pain may come and go. It may get worse with activity. Your doctor will ask questions about your child's past health and do a physical exam to find out if your child's pain is caused by Osgood-Schlatter disease or some other problem, such as an injury. The doctor will feel and move your child's knee as part of the physical exam. The doctor will look at the knee and check for tenderness, range of motion, and how stable the knee is. The doctor may check both knees even if only one hurts. X-rays usually aren't done to diagnose Osgood-Schlatter disease, but they may be done to rule out other causes of knee pain. Osgood-Schlatter disease doesn't require medical treatment. Your doctor can suggest home care to help relieve symptoms. A doctor or physical therapist can teach your child exercises to help stretch and strengthen the leg muscles that support the knee. Surgery is rarely recommended. Current as of: July 17, 2023 Author: Healthwise Staff Current as of: July 17, 2023 Author: Healthwise Staff Clinical Review Board This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. Learn how we develop our content. To learn more about Healthwise, visit Healthwise.org. © 1995-2024 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.Topic Contents
Osgood-Schlatter Disease
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What is Osgood-Schlatter disease?
What causes it?
What are the symptoms?
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How is Osgood-Schlatter disease treated?
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All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
Our Health Library information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn more about their health. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein. Current as of: July 17, 2023 Author: Healthwise Staff Clinical Review BoardOsgood-Schlatter Disease
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.