Osgood-Schlatter Disease, A Growing Pain for Young Athletes

As a young athlete, knee pain can feel like a roadblock to chasing your goals. One of the most common conditions we see at Stellar Physio is Osgood-Schlatter disease, particularly in kids who love sports like football, basketball, and athletics. This condition, often referred to as “growing pains,” primarily affects adolescents during their growth spurts. At Stellar Physio, we’re here to help young athletes and their families understand this condition and provide expert care to keep them active and pain-free.

What is Osgood-Schlatter Disease?

Osgood-Schlatter disease is a condition caused by overuse and stress on the patellar tendon, which connects the kneecap (patella) to the shinbone (tibia). This repeated strain can lead to inflammation at the tibial tuberosity (the bony bump below the kneecap) during periods of rapid growth. It’s particularly common in kids who participate in activities that involve running, jumping, and kicking making football-playing kids especially vulnerable.

Why Does It Affect Young Athletes?

Young athletes are at risk because of the combination of:

• Growth spurts: Rapid bone growth during puberty can put extra strain on tendons and muscles, causing stress at their attachment points.
• Repetitive movements: Sports like football involve constant running, jumping, and kicking, which exert repeated tension on the patellar tendon.
• High activity levels: The more active the child, the higher the risk of overusing the knee joint.

It’s most common in boys aged 10–15 and girls aged 8–14, aligning with their growth spurts.

Symptoms to Look Out For

If your child is complaining about knee pain, especially during or after sports, look for these signs of Osgood-Schlatter disease:

• Pain and tenderness just below the kneecap.
• Swelling around the tibial tuberosity.
• A bony bump at the front of the shin that may be sensitive to touch.
• Increased pain during physical activity, such as running, jumping, or squatting.

How We Help at Stellar Physio

At Stellar Physio, we take a comprehensive approach to managing Osgood-Schlatter disease. Our goal is to reduce pain, promote healing, and help young athletes return to their favorite sports stronger than ever.

Pain Management, we use ice therapy, rest plans, and gentle techniques to reduce inflammation and relieve discomfort. Stretching & Strengthening Exercises, targeted exercises for the quadriceps, hamstrings, and calves improve muscle balance and reduce stress on the tendon. Activity Modification, we guide families on adjusting sports routines to prevent overuse while maintaining fitness. Biomechanical Assessments, correcting movement patterns helps reduce future strain on the knee. Footwear & Support Recommendations, using knee braces or supportive footwear can help manage symptoms during activity.

Osgood-Schlatter disease doesn’t have to sideline your child’s athletic dreams. With early intervention, the right care, and expert physiotherapy, this condition can be effectively managed. At Stellar Physio, we’re here to ensure young athletes stay active, healthy, and pain-free. If your child is experiencing knee pain, don’t wait—book a consultation with Stellar Physio today and let us support them on their journey to recovery!