Has your child been complaining of knee pain?
Is it disrupting their exercise and causing a limp?
Could your child be suffering from Osgood-Schlatters disease?
Osgood-schlatters disease is an injury common in active children aged between 12-15 years old. It is the most common type of growing pain that affects the developing child and can occur in one or both of the knees.
What is osgood-schlatters?
Osgood schlatters is a form of osteochondrosis that occurs on the front of the knee. An osteochondrosis is a condition that affects the growth plate of developing bones in children. In this case it is inflammation occurring at the growth plate of the tibia (shin) where the quadriceps tendon attaches to the tibial tuberosity. A painful lump can form and sometimes the injury can involve the patella (knee cap).
So why does it occur?
Osgood-schlatters occurs from repetitive stress to the knee. Highly active children are most commonly affected, particularly when sports high in jumping and running are involved. The pain generally occurs during and after sport/exercise and eases with rest. Due to this nature, it is recommended that activity be reduced or modified to reduce pain.
How can a podiatrist help?
It is important for children of any age to be active. If your child is suffering from pain, it can be a good idea to get a professional opinion!
Podiatrists are experts in lower limb injuries and enable a correct diagnosis to be made for your child. A podiatrist can help decrease the pain and discomfort of osgood-schlatters until growth has finalised and the injury subsides.
Management strategies that your podiatrist may incorporate include:
RICER: Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation and at times a Referral to other allied health professionals.
The application of anti-inflammatory gel for pain and inflammation management.
Stretching exercises to relieve tension in muscles which may be Contributing to the injury.
Strengthening exercises.
Biomechanical intervention such as orthotics, strapping/taping or bracing
Ultrasound, laser or shockwave therapy
So if your child is suffering from pain and discomfort, don’t hesitate to contact one of our friendly podiatrists today on 1800 778 316 or click below!