Osgood-Schlatter’s Disease
Osgood-Schlatter disease is one of the most common causes of knee pain in growing children and adolescents, especially those who are active in sports. It occurs when the area just below the kneecap becomes irritated and inflamed from repetitive movement or growth-related changes.
At Iowa Ortho, our fellowship-trained pediatric orthopedic surgeon, Dr. Stephen Carveth, provides expert diagnosis and treatment to help children recover safely, relieve pain, and return to the activities they love.
What is Osgood-Schlatter disease?
Osgood-Schlatter disease affects the tibial tuberosity, the bony bump just below the kneecap where the patellar tendon attaches to the shinbone. During periods of rapid growth, this area is especially sensitive to stress from running, jumping, and sports activities.
Repetitive strain can lead to inflammation, swelling, and tenderness in the knee. Though it’s painful, Osgood-Schlatter disease is a temporary and self-limiting condition that typically resolves once growth plates close.
Who gets Osgood-Schlatter disease?
This condition most commonly affects:
- Children and teens aged 9–14 during growth spurts
- Active athletes involved in sports like soccer, basketball, volleyball, gymnastics, and running
- Boys and girls — though boys were historically more affected, the rates are now similar due to increased sports participation among girls
Symptoms of Osgood-Schlatter disease
- Pain and tenderness just below the kneecap
- Swelling or a visible bump at the top of the shinbone
- Pain that worsens with running, jumping, or climbing stairs
- Relief with rest or decreased activity
- Tightness in the quadriceps or hamstring muscles
Symptoms may affect one or both knees and often come and go depending on activity level.
Diagnosis
Your Iowa Ortho pediatric specialist will perform a thorough physical exam and review your child’s medical history. In some cases, X-rays may be ordered to rule out other causes of knee pain and confirm the diagnosis.
Treatment options
Most cases of Osgood-Schlatter disease can be treated without surgery. The goal is to relieve pain and inflammation while allowing the area to heal naturally.
Common treatment strategies include:
- Activity modification: Limiting high-impact sports or activities that cause pain
- Rest and ice: Reducing swelling and discomfort
- Stretching and strengthening: Targeting the quadriceps and hamstrings to reduce tension on the knee
- Knee supports or braces: To provide stability and comfort during activity
- Anti-inflammatory medication: As recommended by your provider for pain relief
In rare cases where symptoms persist after growth plates close, surgical intervention may be considered to remove bony prominence or scar tissue.
Recovery & outlook
With proper care, most children fully recover and can return to sports once pain subsides. While a small bump below the kneecap may remain, it’s usually painless and doesn’t affect long-term function.
At Iowa Ortho, our pediatric team guides families through each stage of recovery, ensuring a safe and smooth return to activity.
Why choose Iowa Ortho for pediatric knee pain?
- Specialized pediatric orthopedic experts experienced in sports-related conditions
- Comprehensive, non-surgical treatment plans tailored to growing children
- Collaborative care with parents, coaches, and physical therapists
- Focus on long-term joint health and safe return to activity
Helping young athletes stay strong and active
At Iowa Ortho, we understand how important movement is for children and teens. Our specialists are here to diagnose, treat, and prevent conditions like Osgood-Schlatter disease — helping kids stay active and pain-free.
Schedule an appointment with Iowa Ortho’s pediatric team today to get your child back to the activities they love.