Osgood-Schlatter’s | What you need to know
As we identified in our previous blog on common causes of knee pain in kids, Osgood’s-Schlatter’s is one of the most frequently encountered paediatric knee conditions that we see at the The Physios. If not managed well, this condition can become much more than just a growth related, transient ache. Read on to discover what Osgood Schlatter’s is, what causes it and importantly, what can be done about it.
What is Osgood-Schlatter ‘Disease’?
Osgood-Schlatter’s is a traction apophysitis of the tibial tuberosity—the bony bump just below your kneecap where the patellar tendon inserts. It primarily affects adolescents during periods of rapid growth, particularly those who are physically active.
The full name for Osgood-Schlatter’s is ‘Osgood-Schlatter’s disease’. It’s not truly a “disease” in the pathological sense, but rather an overuse injury caused by repetitive stress on the growth plate at the tibial tuberosity. This repetitive stress results in the patellar tendon ‘tugging’ at the growth plate, leading to inflammation, pain, and in some cases visible or palpable swelling or bump at the top of the shin bone.
Symptoms
The hallmark symptoms of Osgood Schlatter’s include:
- Pain centrally just below the knee, especially after activity
- Swelling or a bony lump below the kneecap
- Tenderness to touch at the site
- Pain during running, jumping, or kneeling
- In some cases, tightness in the quadricep or hamstring muscles
The condition almost always affects just one side, but affects both sides in about 20–30% of cases.
What Causes Osgood-Schlatter’s?
Osgood-Schlatter’s occurs during the adolescent growth spurt—typically between ages 10–15 in boys and 8–13 in girls—when the bones are growing faster than the soft tissues can adapt. Combine this with sports like football, basketball, gymnastics, or dance, and you’ve got the perfect storm: repetitive quadriceps contraction pulls on the patellar tendon, which tugs on the still-developing tibial tubercle.
This repeated microtrauma leads to inflammation and can sometimes result in the formation of a bony bump if left unmanaged.
Risk factors include:
- Rapid growth spurts
- High levels of physical activity
- Poor flexibility (particularly quadriceps and hamstrings)
- Muscle imbalances
- Improper training load management
How is Osgood-Schlatter’s diagnosed?
Diagnosis is usually clinical, i.e. based upon the history and a physical examination. Sometimes an X-ray or MRI may be recommended to eliminate other possible causes of knee pain.
Treatment for Osgood-Schlatter’s?
The good news is that Osgood-Schlatter’s usually resolves with once the growth plates close. But that doesn’t mean you should ignore it. It’s important to address why the problem occurred in the first instance to reduce the chances of future episodes and the chance of developing chronic knee pain. Osgood’s is typically managed with phsyiotherapy. Treatment may consist of any combination of the following:
1. Activity Modification
While complete rest isn’t necessary, reducing aggravating activities (e.g., jumping, sprinting, deep knee bends) is key.
2. Stretching & Strengthening
Tight quadriceps and hamstrings are common contributors. Gentle stretching and progressive strengthening of the quadriceps, hamstrings, and glutes can help reduce stress on the tibial tuberosity.
3. Manual Therapy & Load Management
A physiotherapist may use soft tissue release, taping techniques, and guided loading strategies to support healing.
4. Ice & Anti-inflammatories
Ice after activity and NSAIDs (i.e. Ibuprofen) can help manage pain and swelling.
Final Word
Osgood-Schlatter disease can be frustrating, especially for young athletes eager to stay active. But with early recognition, appropriate load management, and a well-guided rehab plan, the vast majority of cases resolve with time and do not cause long-term issues.
At The Physios, we take a whole-person approach—educating, treating, and empowering every step of the way. Got questions about adolescent knee pain or want to book your child in for an assessment? We’re here to help. Call our friendly reception team on (0114) 267 8181 or email us at [email protected].
