After thorough examination, the doctor concluded that the boy showed clinical signs of Osgood-Schlatter Disease (OSD) — an overuse injury commonly seen in growing adolescents, particularly physically active boys.
⚕️ What is Osgood-Schlatter Disease?
Osgood-Schlatter Disease is an inflammation of the growth plate at the tibial tuberosity — the bony prominence just below the kneecap where the patellar tendon attaches. During rapid growth in adolescence, repeated stress from activities like running and jumping pulls on this area, causing pain and swelling.
🔍 Typical Symptoms:
- Pain just below the kneecap (infra-patellar area), especially with running, jumping, kneeling, or climbing stairs.
- Swelling or a bony bump at the tibial tuberosity.
- Tenderness and discomfort that worsens with activity and improves with rest.
- No signs of systemic illness (no fever or fatigue).
🧪 Diagnosis:
Mainly based on clinical examination, and confirmed with X-rays, which may show:
- Enlargement or irregularity of the tibial tuberosity.
- Small bone fragments or calcification near the patellar tendon insertion.
- Signs of traction injury to the growth plate.
Treatment:
- Conservative management (most common):
- Rest and activity modification (avoiding activities that worsen pain).
- Ice application to reduce swelling.
- Use of NSAIDs for pain relief.
- Physical therapy to stretch and strengthen the quadriceps and hamstrings.
- Knee braces or patellar straps for support.
- Surgery (rare):
- Only considered in severe or persistent cases that don’t respond to conservative treatment.