Osgood-Schlatter disease is a disorder that occurs in active young people. It generally happens in boys aged 11 to 15, but sometimes younger boys and some girls get it, too. It's generally caused by overuse of the knee, so it's very common in kids who play sports that involve running or jumping. If you or your child plays basketball, soccer, football, or competes in gymnastics, they are at risk of developing this disease.
Osgood-Schlatter disease is a small bump that forms just below the knee. This bump can be painful. It develops when you overuse the ligaments in your knee, causing injury to a part of the bone that is still growing. While connected to growing, Osgood-Schlatter disease is not growing pains. It's actually an injury to the growing area of the bone.
Osgood-Schlatter disease can be treated by resting the area and by changing your activity for awhile. If you have this problem, you may need to wear a special knee strap for awhile. But rest is generally all that's needed to treat this problem. Self-care is generally all that's needed. If the problem is severe, you might need a brace or cast for a few weeks to immobilize the knee. You can also work with a physical therapist or trainer to help regain your flexibility and strength.
If you have Osgood-Schlatter disease, rest is key. Parents should urge their children to rest the knee and to use their pain as a guide. If their pain is severe, they should avoid use of the knee. if it's mild, a low-impact sport like swimming is acceptable. It's important to rest the knee as much as possible and to ease into your old sports routine after the pain lessens in order to prevent the need for corrective surgery in adulthood. With proper care, you'll be back in the game in no time.
Visit the knee surgeons at McLean County Orthopedics for help with Osgood-Schlatter Disease.
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