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Growing pains may be very real, particularly for teens who experience sudden growth spurts while participating in running and jumping sports activities. The diagnosis for up to 20 percent of all athletic adolescents is this: Osgood-Schlatter Disease.

Scientifically known as Tibial Tubercle Traumatic Apophysitis, Osgood-Schlatter Disease is really an inflammation of the growth plate just below the kneecap. Technically, it is a form of osteochondritis (involving tendon inflammation) and one of the most common causes of knee pain in children and young adults.

It may affect one or both legs. Pain tends to be most severe during and after high-impact athletics, such as basketball, soccer, floor gymnastics, or even cheerleading. Repetitive jumping seems to aggravate the condition the most.

Osgood-Schlatter is most common in young athletes, particularly taller children. It is most common in boys, although girls may have it too.

What causes Osgood-Schlatter Disease?

It is caused by pressure to the tendon attaching the leg muscles to the main lower leg bone, the tibia. Essentially, an adolescent's bones may grow faster than his soft tissue, which must stretch to catch up. When a child grows suddenly taller, the tendons may be stressed. This can even create a bony lump on the tendon, which may be seen protruding below the knee.

The disease is not serious or life-threatening, and it generally goes away with time and continued growth.

How long does Osgood-Schatter Disease last?

This condition may last from six to 24 months, or even more. Usually, it disappears after a child has finished growing vertically, when his bones have fused at his mature height.

What can be done about it?

Most doctors recommend refraining from sports when pain occurs. Resting and taking over-the-counter anti-inflammatories (such as ibuprofen) may help. A stretchy sports band may be purchased to support the knee for sports. If symptoms are severe, the knee may be supported by a brace or a cast.

In drastic cases, a surgeon may drill a series of small holed through the epiphyseal plate to relieve pressure and encourage skeletal fusion.

For most Osgood-Schlatter teens, however, a season on the bench is just what the doctor ordered.

Learn more about this author, Linda Ann Nickerson.
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