Also known as ‘growing pains. It is quite a common condition that normally affects sporty teenagers.
Cause:
- Generally, an overuse of the quadricep (thigh) muscle.
- When the quadricep contracts it creates a strain at the growth plate directly below the knee.
Symptoms:
- Pain below the knee.
- It can be one or both knees.
- Normally during or after playing sport.
- There may also be a hard lump under the knee.
Prognosis:
- Anywhere from a few weeks to a few years.
- It may persist until growing has finished, but is not generally seen in children older that 16 years of age.
Treatment:
- The pain often disappears in a few months without treatment.
- Rest from sport when the pain is bad, or at least lessen the intensity and frequency.
- Anti-inflammatories or ice to relieve pain after sport.
- You can try a band of tape directly below that knee-cap which sometime helps relieve pain.
- See a physio for some lower limb strengthening and stretching exercises.
Remember, whilst Osgood Schlatter disease can be very painful and sometimes quite limiting, it is not considered a serious condition and normally resolves with time.