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Understanding Osgood-Schlatter Disease(OSD) As A Young Athlete

Osgood-Schlatter Disease (OSD) is a very common condition affecting active adolescents, particularly aged 10-16 years old who are involved in sports. OSD can cause pain and discomfort in the knee, particularly just below the kneecap at the bony prominence called the tibial tuberosity. 

It is typified by inflammation of the growth plate at the tibial tuberosity during periods of increased loads or rapid growth.

What Causes Osgood-Schlatter Disease?

The primary cause of OSD is repetitive stress on the knee, particular with activities that involve excessive running, jumping, or squatting. Some examples include:

  • Basketball
  • Soccer
  • Gymnastics
  • Running

OSD kids

What Are the Symptoms of Osgood-Schlatter Disease?

  • Pain and tenderness at the tibial tuberosity
  • Swelling in the affected area
  • Pain that worsens with activity and improves with rest
  • Stiffness in the knee, particularly with bending it

How Can Physiotherapy and Chiropractic Care Help Treat Osgood-Schlatter Disease?

  • Assessment and Diagnosis – A thorough evaluation, assessing the range of motion of multiple surrounding joints, strength, loads, and functional movements to create a tailored treatment plan.
  • Activity Modification – Temporarily reducing or modifying activities that aggravate pain is key to reducing the symptoms. This might include avoiding high-impact sports or specific movements that trigger the pain.
  • Manual Therapy & Modalities – Techniques such as soft tissue work, joint mobilisations, low level laser therapy, dry needling, and education regarding loads can reduce pain and improve knee function.
  • Education and Ergonomics – Educating young athletes about proper movement technique and biomechanics can help reduce load and secondary symptoms. This may include guidance on warm-ups and cool downs, as well as how to manage loads.
  • Gradual Return to Activity – Once pain decreases and strength returns, a health care provider can guide a graduated and safe return to sports, ensuring that activity levels are increased progressively to prevent recurrence.

 

knee pain

Don’t Let OSD Sideline Your Athletic Dreams – Get Expert Help Now!

Osgood-Schlatter disease while painful is very manageable with appropriate care. By combining targeted rest, specific exercises, and education, young athletes can recover effectively and return to their activities better and stronger than before. 

Knee pain associated with Osgood Schlatter Disease should require a physiotherapist or chiropractor assessment to personalise treatment options and load management.

Consider consulting with our team at Spinal & Sports Care to develop a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to your needs. Reach out to our physiotherapists and chiropractors at Spinal & Sports Care today.