Osgood-Schlatter disease is a condition that causes swelling and tenderness at the bony point (tibial tuberosity) just below the knee. It appears most often in children engaged in athletic activities that place stress on the muscles and other tissues surrounding this area of the leg.

Experts believe that Osgood-Schlatter disease is a result of contraction of the quadriceps, the large muscles in front of the thigh. These muscles are connected to the patellar tendons that run through the knee and attach to the shin bone (tibia). When the quadriceps contract, the patellar tendons pull back from the tibial tuberosity. If this occurs too frequently, it may inflame bone, cartilage or tendon at the top of the tibia.

Pain just below the knee is the most common sign of Osgood-Schlatter disease. The pain may range from mild to severe and is often worse during certain forms of exercise, including running, jumping and using stairs. Kneeling also may cause pain. In some cases, the pain is more constant.

A physician will review a medical history and perform a physical examination when diagnosing Osgood-Schlatter disease. In some cases, the physician may want to take x-rays of the child’s knee.

Short-term pain associated with Osgood-Schlatter can be eased by applying ice (cryotherapy) and taking pain relievers. Long-term treatment consists of resting the leg, physical therapy and refraining from certain activities until the leg heals. Crutches, casting of the leg or surgery may be necessary in more severe cases.