Osgood-Schlatter Disease

Osgood-Schlatter Disease Treatment in Kansas City, MO


Osgood-Schlatter disease is a condition that causes pain and swelling below the knee joint where the patellar tendon attaches to the shin bone. In some cases, there is also inflammation of the patellar tendon, which stretches over the kneecap. This condition is most commonly found in young athletes who play sports that require a lot of jumping and running.

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What Causes Osgood-Schlatter Disease?

This condition is caused by irritation of the bone growth plate, which gives reason for this disease being most commonly found in young athletes. Certain movements pull on the patellar tendon that attaches to the front of the shin. This constant pulling can cause inflammation and pain in the area from activities that put stress on the knee including but not limited to:

  • Squatting
  • Bending
  • Running uphill
  • Running up stadium steps

Osgood-Schlatter Disease Treatment

Typically time and rest will help this condition subside. Taking a break from sports activities with running, jumping, or any other deep knee-bending is important until swelling and tenderness fade. Once athletes return to activity, they can choose to wear knee pads to help with impact to the tender spot, or a patellar tendon strap below the kneecap to help decrease the pull on the shin. RICE therapy is also very useful in treatment; rest, ice, compression, and elevation.

Osgood-Schlatter Disease Surgery

Surgery is rarely needed as this condition tends to go away with the above treatment plan. Once the growth plates close in young athletes, bone forms to replace the cartilage growth plate, strengthening the area, and eliminating the weakness for this disease to target.

Discoid Meniscus Doctors

If you have any of the symptoms mentioned above, please contact Orthopedic Health of Kansas City and make an appointment with one of our Kansas City knee and leg specialists. They will perform a complete examination, diagnosing and ultimately treating any problem. From simple physical therapy to complicated surgery, you’re in good hands with Orthopedic Health of Kansas City and we will do what it takes to get you active again.