What is Osgood-Schlatter Syndrome?
Osgood-Schlatter Syndrome (OSS) is a common knee condition experienced by children and adolescents with an incidence of 3.8 per 1000 person–years. It is characterized by pain and swelling just below the kneecap, where the patellar tendon connects to the tibia bone. OSS is more common in boys than girls and can be caused by various factors such as growth spurts, overuse, and physical activity. In this post, we will discuss the causes, signs and symptoms, and treatment options for Osgood-Schlatter Syndrome with a particular focus on physiotherapy.
What Causes Osgood-Schlatter Syndrome?
OSS is caused by repetitive stress on the patellar tendon, which attaches the kneecap to the tibia bone. During growth spurts, the bones may grow faster than the muscles and tendons, causing tension and strain on the patellar tendon. This can lead to inflammation, swelling, and pain in the knee joint.
Signs and Symptoms of Osgood-Schlatter Syndrome
The most common symptom of OSS is pain and swelling just below the kneecap. The pain can be aggravated by physical activities such as running, jumping, or kneeling. Other symptoms include stiffness, tenderness, and a bony bump at the top of the shin bone. In severe cases, the pain may persist even at rest.
Treatment Options
The treatment for OSS depends on the severity of the condition. Rest, ice, and over-the-counter pain relievers can help alleviate the pain and swelling. In severe cases, a knee brace or crutches may be necessary to keep weight off the knee. Physical therapy is an effective treatment option for OSS. A physiotherapist can help with range of motion exercises, strengthening exercises, and stretching exercises to alleviate the tension on the patellar tendon.
Physiotherapy for Osgood-Schlatter Syndrome
Physiotherapy can help reduce pain and inflammation, strengthen the knee joint, and prevent future injury. A physiotherapist can develop a personalised treatment plan based on the severity of the condition and the patient’s individual needs. This plan may include:
- Range of motion exercises: These exercises help improve flexibility and increase the range of motion in the knee joint. They can also help alleviate stiffness and reduce pain.
- Strengthening exercises: Strengthening exercises can help improve the strength and stability of the knee joint. This can help alleviate tension on the patellar tendon and reduce the risk of future injury.
- Stretching exercises: Stretching exercises can help improve flexibility and reduce tension on the patellar tendon. This can help reduce pain and swelling in the knee joint.
- Manual therapy: Manual therapy techniques such as massage and joint mobilisation can help reduce pain and inflammation in the knee joint.
What Next?
Osgood-Schlatter Syndrome is a common knee condition that can cause pain and swelling just below the kneecap. It is more common in boys than girls and can be caused by various factors such as growth spurts, overuse, and physical activity. Rest, ice, and over-the-counter pain relievers can help alleviate the pain and swelling, and physical therapy is an effective treatment option for OSS. A physiotherapist can develop a personalised treatment plan based on the severity of the condition and the patient’s individual needs. If you or your child is experiencing symptoms of OSS, don’t hesitate to book an appointment today!
