Osgood-Schlatter disease (OSD) is a common cause of knee
pain in growing adolescents. It is an inflammation of the area just below the knee where the tendon from the kneecap (patellar tendon) attaches to the shinbone (tibia).
Osgood-Schlatter disease most often occurs during growth spurts, when bones, muscles, tendons, and other structures are changing rapidly. Because physical activity puts additional
stress on bones and muscles,
children who participate in athletics — especially running and jumping
sports - are at an increased risk for this condition. However, less active adolescents may also experience this problem.
Painful symptoms are often brought on by running, jumping, and other sports-related activities. In some cases, both knees have symptoms, although
one knee may be worse than the other.
Knee
pain and tenderness at the tibial tubercle
Swelling at the tibial tubercle
Tight muscles in the front or back of the thigh