How to Treat Osgood Schlatters

We can come across all sorts of health problems no matter what age we are, and sometimes it doesn’t always matter what our level of fitness is. Whether you are a child or elderly, you are at risk of injuring your bones, tendons or muscles especially if you follow an active lifestyle. However, this shouldn’t deter you in your efforts, particularly if you enjoy playing a sport!

At Physio Wellbeing we see all sorts of injuries and pains that are caused by simple reasons, whether it is posture, sport or you have been involved in an accident. Sometimes, injuries can occur naturally. An example of this is Osgood Schlatters Disease.

What is Osgood Schlatters?

While it is described as a disease, it is not as scary as that. It is commonly associated with growth spurts in children and adolescents, since the main muscle in the thigh (known as the quadriceps) is attached to the kneecap tendon and this becomes tight during normal growth.

It consists of pain in the knee; the lump just underneath your kneecap can become painful and swollen if you have Osgood Schlatters. It commonly occurs in children aged between 10 and 15, and was originally more common in boys but as girls become more involved in sporting activities this is changing.

What causes Osgood Schlatters?

Apart from being due to natural growth, there are some other factors that can bring on a case of Osgood Schlatters. Often it is children who play sport who see the worst cases. Playing a sport that makes the muscles repeatedly contract can put extra pressure on the developing bone. Therefore, the risk of Osgood Schlatters can be increased if your child plays any sport that involves running or jumping; overuse and physical stress are certainly factors.

How to help treat Osgood Schlatters

Osgood Schlatters is unfortunately a condition that could continue until you stop growing, but there are certain steps you can take to help relieve symptoms in the meantime. Resting is particularly important; you may be required to limit the activities that cause your pain. Likewise, if your symptoms flare up you should take a break.

Putting ice on the affected area for 10 to 15 minutes can also be a big help, especially after the activity that has caused the pain or inflammation. Similarly, if you experience pain or swelling in your knee then it is important to elevate it to relieve these symptoms.

Of course, physiotherapy can also help symptoms of Osgood Schlatters. Physio can help you learn specific stretches that can help with the affected quadriceps and hamstring muscles, therefore possibly reducing some tension. Strengthening exercises for the quadriceps can also help in stabilising the knee joint which could reduce some pain.

Here at Physio Wellbeing we can provide a whole host of different treatments depending on your condition. Contact us today to see how we can help you!