Osgood-Schlatter disease is a common cause of knee pain in growing adolescents. It is an inflammation of the area just below the knee where the tendon from the kneecap (patellar tendon) attaches to the shinbone (tibia). The bones of growing adolescents have special areas called growth plates that eventually harden into bone as the child grows. Osgood-Schlatter disease is an inflammation of the growth plate just below the knee.
Children who participate in athletics — especially running and jumping sports - are at an increased risk for this condition. However, less active adolescents may also experience this problem. Common symptoms of Osgood-Schlatter can be felt in one or both knees and include:
- Knee pain and tenderness at base of the knee
- Swelling at the base of the knee
- Tight muscles in the front or back of the thigh
Most symptoms will completely disappear when a child completes the adolescent growth spurt, around age 14 for girls and age 16 for boys. Treatment generally includes stretching therapy and rest.