Question:
I suspect my son has Osgood Schlatter's Disease. Is it important to have an official diagnosis for this or should we just begin home treatment with this assumption? My understanding is that there is not much that can be done--just rest, icing, stretching and strengthening.
- Amy - Canada (Parent)
Answer:
You are correct about the treatment for Osgood-Schlatter’s Disease. When diagnosed, I typically recommend stretching, stretching and then more stretching. At the same time, anti-inflammatory medications, modification of painful activities, ice, and patellar tendon straps can be helpful. A small portion of kids have enough pain to require immobilization in a brace. The pain is due to irritation of one of the knee growth centers from the pull of the kneecap tendon. Though it is a diagnosis that is typically made by your pediatrician or pediatric orthopaedic surgeon based on exam, it may be useful to confirm this diagnosis with your child’s health care provider.
- Amy - Canada (Parent)
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