Osgood Schlatter’s Disease

Teenagers doing a lot of sport(s) are often prone to growth-related conditions, such as Osgood-Schlatter Disease (tibial tuberosity apophysitis). This condition arises due to repetitive stress on growth plates during periods of rapid skeletal growth, when demand on the tendons is large. Growth plates are the areas of new bone growth in adolescents, usually near the ends of long bones, such as the thigh or shin bone. Early recognition and treatment are essential to prevent long-term issues.

What is Apophysitis? 

Apophysitis is an overuse injury that occurs when there is inflammation at an apophysis (a growth plate where tendons attach to bones) typically seen in children and adolescents during periods of rapid growth and/or excessive activity.

Why does it happen?

The early adolescent growth spurt causes bone growth to exceed that of the muscle-tendon unit. As a result, the muscle-tendon unit loses the ability to stretch sufficiently, causing increased tension across the not yet fully grown (called ‘closed’ when finished growing) apophysis. This stress can irritate the growth plate causing inflammation and subsequently pain.

Osgood-Schlatter Disease

Osgood-Schlatter disease affects children aged 10–15, particularly those involved in sports requiring jumping or squatting. It causes pain at the tibial tuberosity (just below the kneecap) where the patellar tendon (that comes from the kneecap) attaches.
 
Symptoms: 
  • Pain and swelling below the kneecap where the patella tendon attaches to the shin bone. The pain will be aggravated with activity. 
  • Tenderness over the tibial tuberosity, the protruding bony area at the top of the shin bone. In severe cases there will be a noticeable bony bump. 
Treatment:
  • Rest and Activity Modification: Limit activities that strain the knee, such as running or jumping.
  • Ice Therapy: Apply ice for 15–20 minutes after activity to ease inflammation. 
  • Stretching and Strengthening: Quadriceps and hamstring stretches can reduce stress on the tibial tuberosity, while strengthening stabilises the joint. A children’s physiotherapist can help guide your child through the best exercises.
  • Knee Straps: These may provide psychological support during activities but the evidence of their efficacy is limited
Symptoms often subside with skeletal maturity, though some people may retain a bony prominence.
Key Message:

Osgood-Schlatter disease is self-limiting and improves with conservative management. Parents and coaches should encourage children to listen to their bodies, rest appropriately, and seek professional advice if symptoms persist. If your child is struggling with knee pain, give us a call on 07702 847036 and speak directly to a Senior Chartered Physiotherapist or click the ‘Book Online’ button to make an appointment. Both in-clinic and virtual video appointments are available. We have two clinicians who treat children: Himanshu Sood (any age) and Sarah Massey (children aged 10 years and older).

The Nebula Physio and Wellbeing Team