What is Osgood Schlatter's disease?
This condition mainly affects boys aged 10 to 16 years old and is caused by repetitive stress or tension on a part of the growth area of the upper tibia (shinbone).
The patellar tendon and surrounding soft tissues at the point where the tendon attaches to the tibia become inflamed. Through overuse, this tendon can pull at the bone causing inflammation.
The tendon can become so stretched that it tears away from the tibia and takes a fragment of bone with it.
Symptoms
- Swelling or visible lump just bellow the kneecap
- Pain below the knee that worsens with activity
What you can do
- Rest. This injury needs rest if it is to heal. You must only do as much exercise as it will allow you. Weight bearing exercise will make it worse. Keep your sessions few and high quality rather than train every day.
- Apply heat and use a heat retainer.
- See a sports injury specialist.
Other related articles:
Painkillers (Paracetamol)
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
COX-2 specific inhibitors
Different Steroids
Cortisone injections |
