Growth related knee pain/conditions

Growth related knee pain is common, particularly in children who play a lot of sport, and may include ligament injuries and strains. Whilst most injuries of this kind often heal quickly in children and are self-limiting, those with persistent pain and reduced function should seek advice from a Health Care Professional.

Two of the most common knee complaints in adolescents presenting for treatment in Musculoskeletal Clinics are Osteochondritis Dissecans and Osgood Schlatters Disease.

Osgood Schlatters Disease

What causes Osgood Schlatters Disease?

This is a growth related injury of the tibial tuberosity (small raised area on the front of the tibia bone of the lower leg) in which small avulsion fractures are caused as a result of the patella tendon pulling on the tuberosity during forceful contraction of the quadriceps (thigh muscles). This usually happens in adolescents because the bone has not finished forming properly and the strength of the quadriceps muscle may exceed the ability of the tibial tuberosity to resist that force.

What are the symptoms of Osgood Schlatters Disease?

Symptoms may include one or more of the following:

Pain and swelling just below the kneecap
Tenderness to touch just below the kneecap
A raised lump just below the kneecap
Gradual onset of pain
Pain relieved with rest and worsened with activity

Physiotherapy treatment for Osgood Schlatters Disease

Whilst it is believed by many that Osgood Schlatters is a self-limiting condition, it may be advisable to reduce or stop strenuous activity until symptoms are resolved.

Early physiotherapy intervention can be very beneficial in order that you have the correct advice and hence earliest possible return to sporting activities.  Physiotherapy treatment at Cleethorpes Physio Clinic may include: