The Osgood-Schlatter syndrome, also called Osgood-Schlatter disease, is a knee condition that often affects young teenagers during a growth spurt, especially if they participate in sports like soccer, gymnastics, or wushu. Its main symptoms are knee pain and a swollen area below the kneecap. The syndrome was named after its discoverers, Osgood and Schlatter.
Description: The Osgood-Schlatter Syndrome
Also known as tubercle traumatic apophysitis or Osgood-Schlatter disease, it is a painful inflammation of the growth plate at the top of the shin bone (between the shin bone and the kneecap).
The pain is caused by stress on the tendon that attaches the upper thigh muscle (quadriceps) to the shin bone.
The Osgood-Schlatter syndrome can be diagnosed through physical examination, X-ray, and ultrasound scan.
Symptoms: The Osgood-Schlatter Syndrome
- Knee pain
- Pain when extending the knee or performing a full squat
- Knee pain while running or walking upstairs
- Pain usually eases with rest
- Swelling below the kneecap; in some cases, the skin may appear red
- Occasionally, the quadriceps muscles can lose strength and bulk
Test: While extending the knee and relaxing the leg muscles, gently move the kneecap slightly to one side, then slowly contract the quadriceps. Pain may indicate Osgood-Schlatter syndrome.
Treatment: The Osgood-Schlatter Syndrome
- In most cases, the syndrome resolves itself within a year.
- If the growth spurt is prolonged, the knee may remain uncomfortable for up to three years.
- In some cases, the force of the tightened tendon can pull fragments from the shin bone, resulting in a larger-than-normal bump between the kneecap and the shin bone. This is sometimes seen in young wushu athletes in China who perform acrobatic jumps on concrete.
- Another possible complication is an altered position of the kneecap.
Treatment options include:
- Avoiding activities that worsen knee pain
- Stretching and strengthening exercises for the quadriceps, hamstrings, and calves
- Frequent use of ice packs to reduce swelling
- Rest to ease symptoms
- Physiotherapy
- Painkillers and anti-inflammatory medication
- In extreme cases, surgery may be necessary after growth has stopped
Trainer Advice: The Osgood-Schlatter Syndrome
- Avoid all activities that worsen symptoms and consult a doctor as soon as possible
- If your doctor recommends stretching exercises, do them consistently
Related Topics
- Stretching
- How to Learn Wushu Acro Without Risk
- Frog Jumps (often the cause in children)
- Whirlwind Kick (often the cause in children’s wushu)
Videos: The Osgood-Schlatter Syndrome
