Children’s Knee Pain Treatment in Winchester and Basingstoke

Osgood Schlatter’s – What is it?

Osgood-Schlatters is a condition that causes children’s knee pain. It is a common condition, affecting children and adolescents. Pain is generally experienced at the bony prominence at the top of the shin bone (tibia), just below the knee cap. Osgood Schlatter’s is characterized by an inflammation or irritation of the growth plate and generally occurs in active kids between the ages of 12 -15 years. It is commonly seen in teens who are involved in high impact sports such as netball and basketball, however can be seen across a variety of sports and exercise. We’ll discuss the causes and treatment below, but if you are seeking children’s knee pain treatment, contact Eclipse Foot Clinic today to make an appointment. Our Paediatric Specialist Lydia is super at fixing knee pain!

What Causes Osgood Schlatter’s/Children’s Knee Pain?

Whilst there are a large number of contributing factors that can lead to Osgood Schlatter’s, the most common that we see in our clinics include:

Poor biomechanics e.g. flat feet that roll in excessively
Incorrect footwear
Over training
Sudden skeletal growth
Hard training surfaces
Repetitive activities like running and sprinting
Age: 12-15

Osgood Schatter’s can be extremely painful and debilitating, but generally responds quickly to early, appropriate Podiatry treatment.

What Are The Common Symptoms of Osgood Schlatter’s?

Symptoms often start quite mild, so parents sometimes hold off on getting knee pain treatment, until their child starts limping. During this time, it can turn into a chronic condition, leading to a significantly increased recovery time.

Most Common Osgood Schlatter’s Symptoms

Tenderness on the tibial tuberosity that sits just below the knee cap
Swelling and inflammation around the site
Pain when running, kicking or jumping
A feeling of weakness or instability at the front of the knee
In chronic cases, the tibial tuberosity can become enlarged due to bone spurring and inflammation

Whilst Osgood Schlatter’s is a common condition, it should be treated as early and as aggressively as possible.

How is Osgood Schlatter’s Diagnosed?

A thorough clinical examination/history will generally be sufficient for the diagnosis of Osgood Schlatter’s syndrome. You may, however, be referred for an x-ray +/- bone scan to rule out other possible injuries such as stress fractures.

What Are The Treatment Options For Osgood Schlatter’s?

Rest and ice
Anti-inflammatory medications
Activity Modification
Improved biomechanics
Strength and conditioning program
Custom insoles
Shockwave Therapy

Osgood Schlatter’s – The Prognosis

Although it can be a debilitating injury, the majority of children respond well to conservative treatment and do not require surgical intervention. Although recovery is always individual and can change between children, 80-90% of patients respond well within 1-3 months of treatment and are back into their standard activities.