Osgood-Schlatter Disease
Osgood-Schlatter disease is inflammation of the bone and cartilage at the top of the shinbone (tibia).
Osgood-Schlatter disease develops between the ages of 10 and 15, usually in boys. The cause is thought to be repetitive, excessive pulling by the tendon of the kneecap (patellar tendon) on its point of attachment at the top of the shinbone (tibia). This point of attachment is called the tibial tubercle.
The major symptom is pain at the tibial tubercle. The pain worsens with activity and is relieved with rest. Swelling and tenderness eventually develop at the site. X-rays of the knee may show enlargement or fragmentation of the tibial tubercle.
Avoiding sports and excessive exercise helps reduce pain. Avoiding deep knee bending is particularly helpful. Use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may help the pain. Several weeks or months may be required for healing. Occasionally, the entire leg, from the ankle to the upper thigh, must be immobilized in a plaster cast for several weeks.
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