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Once a child has recovered from Osgood-Schlatter disease, certain steps can be taken to help prevent the condition from occurring again. Exercises such as straight-leg raises, leg curls and quadriceps contractions can strengthen the quadriceps and hamstrings and support the knee. Parents are urged to consult with their child’s physician before having their child try these exercises.
Parents are advised to encourage their child to stretch before and after exercise. This will help loosen the quadriceps, which in turn will make them less likely to tug on the patellar tendon. Children should be urged to avoid deep knee bending. Parents are also encouraged to speak with their child’s coach or trainer to ensure the child is modifying activity levels appropriately. Shock-absorbent insoles can decrease stress on the knee. Wrestling gel pads and basketball knee pads can offer additional protection for children participating in these sports. They can be bought at sporting goods stores. |