Osgood-Schlatter syndrome
Osgood-Schlatter disease (also known as tibial tubercle traumatic apophysitis) is an inflammation of the growth plate at the tibial tuberosity. It is one of a group of conditions called osteochondritis and causes knee pain in children.
The disease is most common in active boys aged 10-14. It most commonly occurs in just one leg but can occur in both at the same time. It is not serious and usually goes away in time.
What are the causes of Osgood-Schlatter disease ?
The condition is caused by stress on the tendon that attaches the muscle at the front of the thigh to the tibia. It occurs when, following an adolescent growth spurt, stress from contraction of the quadriceps is transmitted through the patellar tendon to the not yet fully-developed tibial tuberosity. This can cause inflammation and avulsion fracture, and eventually results in bone growth in the tendon, producing a visible lump.
What are the symptoms of Osgood-Schlatter disease ?
A visible bump around 2cm in diameter will appear at the tibial tubercle and will cause pain during and after high impact activities, and sometimes after lesser activities such as climbing stairs. The disease is generally a benign condition which in most cases will eventually disappear on its own.
Symptoms may last for 2-3 years, but will always resolve at the end of the growth spurt, or at the latest when the tibial epiphysis fuses.
What treatment is available for Osgood-Schlatter disease ?
Treatment includes rest and analgesics. Doctors encourage to take a break from any more physical activity that could induce more pain until the pain subsides.
Immobilisation of the knee by a cast may be required if the problem persists.
As a last resort surgery, consisting of the drilling (under anaesthetic) of multiple holes through the epiphyseal plate promotes fusion and relieves the condition.
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