Schlatter's Disease: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Osgood-Schlatter disease occurs when the tendon attachment of the thigh muscle, located on a bump a few centimeters below the kneecap (tuberositas tibiae), becomes inflamed and swollen. This often happens during periods of rapid growth, when the development of the skeleton does not always keep pace with the load on the muscles and tendons.

The development of Osgood-Schlatter disease can be attributed to several factors. The primary cause is often the rapid growth during puberty, where the skeleton grows faster than the muscles and tendons can adapt. This can lead to increased tension in the patellar tendon. Overuse through intense training or sports is another common cause. Muscle imbalance, where tight or weak muscles in the thighs and calves increase the load on the patellar tendon, can also play a role. Additionally, some children may be more prone to developing the condition due to genetic factors or their body structure.

Symptoms of Osgood-Schlatter Disease

The symptoms of Osgood-Schlatter disease can vary in intensity but typically include:

• Pain and tenderness at the front of the knee, just below the kneecap
• Swelling and thickening of the bump under the kneecap (Osgood-Schlatter bump)
• Increased pain during physical activity, especially running and jumping
• Stiffness in the knee after inactivity
• Pain when pressure is applied to the affected area
• Visible swelling or bump at the front of the knee

Diagnosis and Examination

If a child experiences persistent knee pain, it is important to seek medical care for an accurate diagnosis. The doctor will usually perform a physical examination of the knee and ask about the child's medical history and activity level. In some cases, X-rays or ultrasound may be ordered to rule out other knee problems, although this is often not necessary for diagnosing Osgood-Schlatter disease.

Schlatter's knee is a self-healing condition that usually resolves when the child stops growing. Therefore, treatment focuses on alleviating symptoms and preventing worsening. A combination of rest, activity modification, and physiotherapy is often effective. Rest and activity modification involve reducing or pausing activities that exacerbate the pain. Physiotherapy may include strengthening exercises and stretching. Cold therapy after activity can help reduce inflammation.

A specially designed knee brace can provide significant relief and support. An effective option is the Knee Brace for Schlatter from Komforten. This knee brace offers several benefits:

A specially designed knee brace can provide significant relief and support. An effective option is the Knee Brace for Schlatter from Komforten. This knee brace offers several benefits: The brace is specifically designed to alleviate pain from Schlatter's disease and jumper's knee. It stabilizes the patella and kneecap, improves mobility, and reduces discomfort. With its secure fit, this knee brace is an excellent choice for protecting the knee during various activities and sports.

Preventive Measures

To reduce the risk of Schlatter's knee or prevent recurrence, it is important to gradually increase training intensity, engage in regular stretching and strength training, use shock-absorbing shoes, and maintain a balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D for bone health. Sufficient rest between workouts is also crucial.

Conclusion

Schlatter's knee can be painful and frustrating for active children and adolescents, but with proper treatment and patience, it usually resolves over time. By combining rest, physical therapy, and supportive aids like the Knee Brace for Schlatter, most young individuals can return to their activities with minimal disruption. Remember that each case is unique, so it's important to follow advice from healthcare professionals. With proper care and support, most children and adolescents can effectively manage Schlatter's knee while continuing to enjoy an active lifestyle.