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


File:MaleWithOsgoodSchlatter.jpg
Male with Osgood–Schlatter disease
File:Three types of avulsion fractures.png
Three types of avulsion fractures
File:OSD Picture.jpg
Osgood–Schlatter disease
File:Straight Leg Raise Exercise.jpeg
Straight Leg Raise Exercise

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]