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  • Emma B

The Osgood Schlatter Disease: Causes, Symptoms and Treatment

Osgood Schlatter disease is a condition that affects the young athletic population and causes complications in later life. The condition is characterized by pain in the knee that is worse with activity and improves with rest. Treatment involves a combination of rest, ice, and physical therapy. In severe cases, surgery may be required.



What are the causes and symptoms?


Osgood Schlatter disease is a condition that affects the knee, typically in adolescents. The condition is characterised by pain and swelling around the kneecap, as well as tenderness and inflammation of the area where the tendon attaches the kneecap to the shinbone (tibia) and inserts into the shinbone. Osgood Schlatter disease is most seen in boys aged 10-15, although girls can also be affected.

There are several theories as to what causes Osgood Schlatter's disease, but the exact cause is still unknown. However, some factors that may contribute to the development of the condition include:

-Repetitive stress or trauma to the knee, such as from playing sports

-Rapid hormonal changes during adolescence

-A family history of the condition


The symptoms of Osgood-Schlatter disease include:

- Knee pain, particularly during activity

- Swelling and tenderness around the kneecap

- Visible lumps or bumps on the kneecap

If your child is experiencing any of these symptoms, it's important to see a doctor so that they can receive a proper diagnosis and treatment.


What treatment is available?


The condition is usually self-limited, meaning it will resolve on its own over time, but sometimes treatment is necessary.

There are a few different options for treating Osgood Schlatter's disease. The first is to simply wait it out, as the condition will usually improve on its own with time. If the pain is severe, however, ice and anti-inflammatory medications can be used to help ease the symptoms. In some cases, a splint or brace may be used to stabilize the knee. Physical therapy may also be recommended to help stretch and strengthen the muscles and ligaments around the knee.


If the condition does not improve with conservative treatment, surgery may be an option. If your child has Osgood Schlatter disease, the orthopaedic surgeon will assess the severity of the condition and recommend the best course of treatment. Surgery is typically reserved for cases that do not respond to conservative treatment. The surgeon will make an incision in the knee and remove the bony growths. The incision will be closed with stitches or staples and the wound will be covered with a dressing. Your child will be placed in a splint or cast to immobilize the knee and prevent it from moving during the healing process.


In conclusion, Osgood Schlatter disease is a condition that affects the knee, causing pain and swelling. The condition is most common in adolescent boys and girls and is caused by overuse of the knee joint. Symptoms include knee pain, tenderness, and swelling. Treatment typically involves rest, ice, and elevation of the affected knee. If symptoms persist, a doctor may prescribe medication or recommend physical therapy.

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