Osgood Schlatter and knee pain
Cotlew St. Osteopathy – Easing pains in growing and active bodies.
Adolescence is a time of rapid growth and physical development, marked by the pursuit of sports and outdoor activities. However, for some young teens, this period may be accompanied by a condition known as Osgood Schlatter disease.
Characterised by knee pain, swelling and tenderness just below the knee, where the patella tendon attaches to the shinbone, Osgood Schlatter can pose challenges for active teenagers.
Osgood Schlatter is an irritation of the growth plate at the top of the shinbone. A growth plate is a layer of cartilage near the end of the bone where most of the growth happens. This area is at higher risk of injury than the rest of the bone. Osgood Schlatter is a repetitive use injury and usually gets worse with running, jumping, going up stairs and walking up hills.
At Cotlew St. Osteopathy we aim to provide comprehensive care for teens with Osgood Schlatter. An Osteopathic consultation and treatment will look to address muscle imbalances by strengthening glutes and quads, reducing inflammation and promoting optimal function through the hip, knee and ankle complex. This, with a gradual increase and return to sport helps in offering relief from the pain and discomfort in the knee, while trying to minimise flareups.
Cotlew St. Osteopathy
Frequently Asked Questions
Osgood Schlatter typically occurs during periods of rapid growth. Typically, between the ages of 10-15 years when the bones and muscles are undergoing significant changes.
While it is not entirely preventable, certain measures, such as warm up exercises, gradual intensity increase in sports, maintaining flexibility, and having good lower limb mechanics can help reduce the risk of developing Osgood Schlatter.
If you have Osgood Schlatter disease, you may be familiar with a bump below your kneecap. In children and teenagers, the bump is usually temporary. It is caused by traction from the quadriceps muscle pulling on the patella tendon before it fully ossifies. With rest and rehabilitation exercises, the bump often settles and reduces as you go through puberty.
Cotlew St. Osteopathy
Cotlew St. Osteopathy understands the unique challenges posed by Osgood Schlatter in growing teenagers.
We work collaboratively with patients to personalise care, address symptoms, help with returning to sport, and promoting a healthy and active lifestyle. If your child is experiencing discomfort from Osgood Schlatter, don’t hesitate to reach out to Cotlew St. Osteopathy for guidance and support.
Schedule a consultation today and let’s guide your child towards relief and resilience.