Complete Balance Physiotherapy

Osgood Schlatter’s

What is Osgood Schlatter’s?

Osgood Schlatter’s disease (Traction Apophysisitis of the Tibial Tuberosity) is a common cause of knee pain in the active, adolescent population. It is an injury to the growth plate located at the top of the shin bone (tibia) where the patella tendon attaches. It occurs when there is repetitive load to the growth plate from the quadriceps muscle such as from running and jumping. Osgood Schlatter’s is often seen in children ages 8-15 years of age who play sports that require lots of running and jumping such as basketball, football, netball, soccer, gymnastics, athletics and volleyball. The onset of their symptoms often occurs during a growth spurt or an increase in physical activity.

Symptoms:

The most common symptom of Osgood Schlatters is pain at the front of the knee over the top of the shin bone. This usually occurs with running, jumping, stairs and squatting. You may also experience tenderness over the top of the shin bone, swelling, a limp and formation of a lump at the top the shin bone.

How Can Physiotherapy Help you?

Your physiotherapist will complete a thorough assessment to confirm the diagnosis of Osgood Schlatter’s Disease and identify any biomechanical abnormalities or strength deficits that may contribute to your condition. Physiotherapy management for Osgood Schlatter’s may consist of the following:
  • Manual therapy to reduce muscle tightness (such as massage or dry needling)
  • The prescription of a home strengthening program to address muscle deficits in the lower limb and other biomechanical deficits
  • Taping for pain relief
  • Load management
  • Implementation of pain management strategies
If you suspect that you or your child has Osgood Schlatters and would like to know more please contact Complete Balance Physiotherapy to book an appointment.