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Osgood-Schlatter Disease: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options for Knee Pain in Kids

Oghenefejiro Okifo | MD

Medically reviewed by Oghenefejiro Okifo | MD, Harvard Medical School | Henry Ford Hospital - Detroit, MI on September 9th, 2023.

Key Takeaways

  • This condition occurs when the patellar tendon repeatedly pulls on the tibial tuberosity (growth plate), causing inflammation and sometimes creating a permanent bony bump that remains even after healing.
  • Peak incidence happens during rapid growth phases—girls typically affected ages 11-12, boys ages 13-14—when bones grow faster than muscles and tendons can adapt.
  • Pain specifically localizes just below the kneecap and intensifies with activities involving knee extension like running, jumping, kneeling, or climbing stairs.
  • Most cases resolve naturally within 12-24 months once the growth plate closes and fuses with the main bone, usually by ages 14-16 in girls and 16-18 in boys.
  • Ice application for 15-20 minutes after activity, combined with ibuprofen 400mg every 6-8 hours during flare-ups, effectively manages symptoms while maintaining modified activity levels.

Osgood-Schlatter disease (OSD) is a condition that causes knee pain in active children and teenagers. It is an overuse injury that occurs when the tendon connecting the shinbone (tibia) to the kneecap (patella) becomes inflamed. This inflammation leads to pain, swelling, and tenderness just below the kneecap.

What Causes Osgood-Schlatter Disease?

OSD is caused by repeated stress on the knee joint, particularly during activities that involve running, jumping, and quick changes in direction. These movements cause the thigh muscles (quadriceps) to pull on the tendon, which can lead to inflammation and pain. Some common sports and activities that may contribute to the development of OSD include:

  • Basketball

  • Soccer

  • Ballet

  • Running

  • Gymnastics

Who Is at Risk for Osgood-Schlatter Disease?

OSD is more common in boys than girls, but it can affect both sexes. It typically occurs during puberty when children experience rapid growth spurts. Boys usually develop OSD around age 13 or 14, while girls tend to develop it earlier, around age 11 or 12.

Symptoms of Osgood-Schlatter Disease

The symptoms of OSD can vary from person to person, with some experiencing severe pain and others having milder symptoms. Common signs and symptoms include:

  • Pain, tenderness, or swelling just below the kneecap

  • Worsening pain during physical activities

  • Limping after participating in sports or other activities

  • In some cases, a bony lump may develop under the kneecap

Osgood-Schlatter Disease: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options for Knee Pain in Kids

Diagnosing Osgood-Schlatter Disease

To diagnose OSD, your child's doctor will perform a physical exam, looking for signs of swelling, redness, pain, and tenderness. In some cases, X-rays may be ordered to examine the bones and the area where the tendon attaches to the shinbone.

Treatment Options for Osgood-Schlatter Disease

Most children with OSD do not require specific treatments, as the condition typically improves on its own once the bones stop growing. However, there are several ways to manage the pain and discomfort associated with OSD:

  1. Rest and avoiding activities that aggravate the condition

  2. Applying ice to reduce pain and swelling

  3. Using over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen, ibuprofen, or naproxen

  4. Participating in physical therapy to stretch and strengthen the muscles around the knee

  5. Wearing a protective pad or patellar tendon strap during sports activities

Long-Term Outlook for Osgood-Schlatter Disease

Most children with OSD do not experience long-term complications. While a bony bump may remain on the shinbone after symptoms have resolved, it rarely causes ongoing knee problems. In rare cases, OSD can cause the growth plate to pull away from the shinbone, requiring further medical attention.

If your child is experiencing knee pain or any of the symptoms associated with Osgood-Schlatter disease, it is essential to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan. With proper management and care, most children with OSD can successfully return to their favorite sports and activities.

For more information about Osgood-Schlatter disease and other common childhood orthopedic conditions, visit:

The Bottom Line

This self-limiting condition requires patience and activity modification rather than complete rest, as symptoms typically disappear once rapid bone growth ends in late adolescence. The key is managing pain while avoiding high-impact sports that worsen symptoms. If you're concerned about persistent knee pain below the kneecap or need guidance on activity modifications, Doctronic can provide quick answers and peace of mind.

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