Osgood–Schlatter disease

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| Osgood–Schlatter disease | |
|---|---|
| File:Radiograph of human knee with Osgood–Schlatter disease.png | |
| Synonyms | Osteochondritis of the tibial tubercle, apophysitis of the tibial tubercle |
| Pronounce | N/A |
| Specialty | Orthopedics |
| Symptoms | Knee pain, swelling below the knee, tenderness |
| Complications | Chronic pain, knee instability |
| Onset | Adolescence |
| Duration | Months to years |
| Types | N/A |
| Causes | Repetitive stress on the knee |
| Risks | Sports participation, growth spurts |
| Diagnosis | Clinical diagnosis, X-ray |
| Differential diagnosis | Patellar tendinitis, Sinding-Larsen-Johansson syndrome |
| Prevention | Stretching, strengthening exercises |
| Treatment | Rest, ice, physical therapy, NSAIDs |
| Medication | Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs |
| Prognosis | Generally good, resolves with time |
| Frequency | Common in active adolescents |
| Deaths | N/A |
Osgood–Schlatter disease (OSD) is a condition that causes pain and swelling below the knee joint, where the patellar tendon attaches to the shinbone (tibia), a spot called the tibial tuberosity. There may also be inflammation of the patellar ligament, which stretches over the kneecap. It is one of the most common causes of knee pain in adolescents.
Causes[edit]
OSD is thought to be caused by small injuries due to repeated overuse before the knee area has finished growing. When activities such as running and jumping put strain on the knee, the quadriceps muscles of the thigh pull on the patellar ligament which in turn pulls on the tibial tuberosity. In some kids who are active in sports, these forces can cause the tibial tuberosity to become inflamed.
Symptoms[edit]
The main symptom is pain just below the kneecap. The pain usually worsens with exercise and is relieved by rest. Other symptoms may include swelling and tenderness at the tibial tuberosity, and tightness of the surrounding muscles.
Diagnosis[edit]
The diagnosis is usually made based on the symptoms and physical examination. X-rays are sometimes used to rule out other conditions.
Treatment[edit]
Treatment usually involves rest and reducing activity until the pain subsides. Over-the-counter pain relievers may also be used. In severe cases, a cast or brace may be needed.
Prognosis[edit]
The prognosis is generally good, with most individuals recovering after a period of rest.
See also[edit]