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The Pathophysiology and Rehabilitation of Osgood-Schlatter Syndrome

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Osgood-Schlatter Syndrome is childhood prone condition known as an Osteochondrosis. This condition tends effect young athletes participating in sports that involve a lot of running and jumping, such as dance and gymnastics. It tends to manifests itself in boys between 10-15yrs and 8-13yr girls, usually a time of peak height velocity. The common signs and symptoms are local pain, swelling and tenderness over the tibial tuberosity on the dominant leg, which makes participation in sport painful. The condition is self-limiting without complication if sporting activity is stopped and conservative treatment sought. However this presents serious limitations for serious athletes who must continue to training. This article aims to educate coaches on the aetiology, diagnosis, and treatment options of the condition, as well as well discuss the injury prevention and rehabilitation recommendations. It is believed that an appropriate understanding of this condition by coaches is important in order to be able to effectively implement preventative measures in their training programs, make appropriate recommendations to athletes, and work closely with health allies (like physiotherapists, GP, pediatricians) to be able to reduce losses in training time due to OSS.
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Gym Coach, Vol.2 (2008) 39-45 Commentary Article
©2008 The Gym Press. All rights reserved Gym Coach Vol.2, August, 2008 - 39-
A look at the pathophysiology and rehabilitation of
Osgood-Schlatter Syndrome
Valentin Uzunov
Hataitai Gymnastics, Wellington, New Zealand
ABSTRACT
Osgood-Schlatter Syndrome is childhood prone condition known as an Osteochondrosis. This condition tends effect young
athletes participating in sports that involve a lot of running and jumping, such as dance and gymnastics. It tends to
manifests itself in boys between 10-15yrs and 8-13yr girls, usually a time of peak height velocity. The common signs and
symptoms are local pain, swelling and tenderness over the tibial tuberosity on the dominant leg, which makes
participation in sport painful. The condition is self-limiting without complication if sporting activity is stopped and
conservative treatment sought. However this presents serious limitations for serious athletes who must continue to
training. This article aims to educate coaches on the aetiology, diagnosis, and treatment options of the condition, as well as
well discuss the injury prevention and rehabilitation recommendations. It is believed that an appropriate understanding of
this condition by coaches is important in order to be able to effectively implement preventative measures in their training
programs, make appropriate recommendations to athletes, and work closely with health allies (like physiotherapists, GP,
pediatricians) to be able to reduce losses in training time due to OSS.
Key Words: Osgood-Schlatter Disease, injury prevention, overuse injury, knee injury
INTRODUCTION
In 1903, Robert Osgood, a US orthopaedic surgeon, and
Carl Schlatter a Swiss surgeon, concurrently described the
possible pathophysiology of the disease that now bears
their names, Osgood-Schlatter Disease (1). They described
it as an avulsion of a small portion of the tibial tuberosity
caused by a violent contraction of the quadriceps extensor
mechanism (2) Since then its has been more accurately
labelled as a syndrome rather then a disease with many
proposed theories to further explain its aetiology (OSD aka
OSS), such as, degeneration of the patellar tendon, aseptic
necrosis, infection, (2), trauma, local alternations of the
chondral tissue, overpull by the extensor muscles of the
knee, which can result in patella alta, and traction
apophysitis, eccentric muscle pull and muscle tightness,
and reduced width of the patella angle (3). It is now
generally accepted that OSS is an avulsion fracture of the
growing tibial tubercle (4), characterized by pain at the
tibial tubercle resulting from repeated stress at the
insertion of the patellar tendon due to extensor
mechanism abnormalities (12).
OSS is part of a group of conditions called
osteochondrosis. These are a family of orthopaedic disease
that occur in children, and involve areas of significant
tensile or compressing stress (5) effecting the growing
epiphysis (growth plate) (13). These conditions often arise
in the knee/s, ankle/s, and elbow/s joints. OSS is
categorized as a chronic overuse injury (7), which is most
often diagnosed in young athletes (but not entirely
exclusive), involved in sports that involve a lot of running
and jumping, such as soccer, dance, gymnastics (10). It
usually manifest itself in boys around 10-15yrs of age, and
in girls around 8-13yrs of age, often coinciding with growth
spurts and peak height velocity (1) The condition is usually
unilateral (9), with 25% to 50% of patients developing a
bilateral condition (11). There is a close relationship
between the leg preferentially involved in jumping, and
sprinting and it developing OSS (3). Traditional literature
suggest that boys are more prevalent to OSS than girls, but
more recent evidence indicates that with more and more
girls being involved in sport, there is no longer any
significant difference (14).
The aim of this article is to examine the available literature
and the current body of knowledge of the pathophysiology
of OSS, in order to give coaches a better understanding and
prevention methods. By educating coaches to recognise the
possible signs and symptoms of this condition, coaches
may be able to identify athletes at high/er risk of
developing the condition, and thus be able to plan
preventative measures ahead of time. It will also allow for
V. Uzunov, Gym Coach, Vol.2 (2008) 39-45 Commentary Article
©2008 The Gym Press. All rights reserved - 40 -
coaches to take appropriate treatment steps when
symptoms arise during training as well as being able to
effectively work with medical allies like physiotherapists in
implementing a rehabilitation program for gymnasts who
suffer from this condition.
DISCUSSION and REVIEW
Aetiology
The exact cause and
aetiology of OSS is still
debated (2), but there is
general consensus in
literature that it is
probably caused by one
or more biological,
biomechanical, and
physiological factors.
These are considered to
be: Overpull of the
extensor mechanism in
the knee, linked with
abnormalities in patella
position (figure 1) (20),
increase external tibial
torsion (3), and possibly
an increased Q-angle,
observed especially in
flat footed and knock-
kneed children (46).
Traction-induced,
microtrauma to the
apophysis, due to chronic overuse (12,16), skeletal
immaturity, quadriceps muscletendon imbalance,
hamstring, and calf flexibility restriction (14, 7) All these
factors are reported in literature to either cause or
predispose growing children to OSS. In a longitudinal
study by Atsushi Hirano et al (2002), MRI was used to
track and clarify the nature and course of OSS in 285 boys
from high level junior soccer teams. They identified and
described 5 stages of the condition, each with its distinct
characteristics and pathological alterations (figure 2).
Normal Stage – MRI is normal but symptoms are present.
Early Stage – MRI show no avulsion at the secondary
ossification centre of the tibial tuberosity, but
inflammation around the secondary ossification centre is
present. Symptoms are initially not severe, but progresses
quickly if no treatment is undertaken
Progressive Stage – Presence of partial cartilaginous
avulsion from the secondary ossification centre. Patients
complain of pain, with obvious swelling of patellar tendon
at insertion. Possible thickening of patellar tendon
Terminal Stage – Existence of separated ossicles.
Symptoms present for period of time (around several
months), tenderness, swelling and pain at tibial tuberosity,
with possible thickening of patellar tendon at insertion
site. Pain triggered at stopping and turning motion.
Patellar tendonitis is a possible secondary pathologic
complication due to partial tear of the secondary
ossification centre.
Healing Stage – Osseous healing of the tibial tubercle
without separated ossicles. Visible prominence of tibial
tuberosity, the patellar tendon could still be thickened at
insertion, but not always.
Chronic overuse injuries (especially in young athletes)
make up 30-50% of all paediatric sport injuries in children
(16) Overuse injuries occur when tissue is repeatedly
stressed by repeated submaximal (16) and maximal
eccentric loading (6). The process starts when repetitive
activity fatigues a specific structure such as tendon or
Figure 1 - Diagram of the knee joint
and the extensor machenism made up
of the quadriceps muscle group,
quadriceps tendon, patella, patellar,
retinaculum, patellar ligament and an
assortment of other soft tissues in that
area. The tibial tuberosity is the
associated site of injury in athletes with
OSS. Image source: John Hoppkins
Sp
ort Medicine Figure 2 (below) - A typical case study of OSS progression Figure 2 -
A
typical case study of OSS progression in a active child over a 2.3 years
p
eriod.(A) At 10.1 years
old, development of the tibial tuberosity was in
the cartilaginous stage and normal. (B) At 11.3 years old, this image
showed that a tear had appeared in the secondary ossification center
(arrow) and development of the tibial tuberosity was in the apophyseal
stage.(C) After 1 month, the MR image showed an opened shell like
separation (arrow) and the disease had advanced to the progressive
stage. The growth of the tibial tuberosity had entered the epiphyseal
stage. High signal intensity appeared within the patellar tendon. (D)
A
fter 2 months the MR image showed that an anterior avulsed portion
had been separated (arrow). (E) At 12.4 years old, the ossicle had
moved further superiorly (arrow).
V. Uzunov, Gym Coach, Vol.2 (2008) 39-45 Commentary Article
©2008 The Gym Press. All rights reserved - 41 -
bone. With sufficient recovery the tissue adapts to the
demands and is able to undergo further loading without
injury. Without adequate recovery, microtrauma develops
and stimulates the body’s inflammatory response, causing
therelease of vasoactive substances (histamines,
leukotaxin, necrosin), inflammatory cells (macrophages,
lymphocytes, and plasma cells), and enzymes that damage
local tissue. In chronic or recurrent cases, continued
loading produces degenerative changes leading to
weakness, loss of flexibility, and chronic pain, all of which
as associated with OSS (16, 12).
Contributing factors to overused injuries with special
consideration to OSS can be classified as intrinsic and
extrinsic. With children special consideration needs to be
given to the immature musculoskeletal systems (16).
Intrinsic factors that need to considered are: Growth-
related factors. Cartilaginous tissue in children is more
susceptible to repetitive stress, especially in the knees,
elbows, and ankles (16). The development of the tibial
apophysis begins as a cartilaginous outgrowth. During this
stage the tuberosity tissue has a decreased resistance to
mechanical stress (16). Secondary ossification centres
appear with a subsequent progression to an epiphyseal
phase when the proximal tibial apophysis closes and the
tibial apophysis fuses to the tibia (22). Calcification of the
apophysis begins distally at 9yr of age for girls, and 11yrs
for males. Fusion of the apophysis to the tibia can take
place via several ossification centres, and occurs on
average at 12yr of age for girls and 13yrs of age for boys
(also coinciding with the age of OSS development), (23).
Prior and during these developmental ages of the tibial
apophysis, it is more vulnerable to injury, until the
apophysis and epiphyseal are calcified and fused. This is a
critical time for all gymnasts who train long hours at young
ages. Tumbling and vaulting during this period of time
should be carefully monitored and not overdone, especially
for gymnasts who are have predispositions. Full floor
tumbling should be restricted to once a week, and
more time should be spent on predominantly on softer non
impacting surfaces, such as rod-floors, tumble tracks, air
tracks etc, Vaults should be landed on soft surfaces such a
into a pit, soft crash mats. The gymnasts should be
restricted to a dozen full vaults a week spread over a week.
A second growth that needs consideration is the imbalance
between growth and development of long bones, and the
adjacent muscle-tendon attachments (16). This imbalance
can occur rapidly during a growth spurt (peak height
velocity), were bone length can develop faster than muscle-
tendon unit (12) Joint tightness, reduced flexibility (of
special relevance are the quadriceps, and hamstring
muscle groups which are associated with OSS), muscle
imbalance, and knee extensor mechanism dysfunction can
develop as a result of the imbalanced between growth and
development of the bone and muscletendon unit (16).This
can lead to increased traction on the apophysis and stress
at the joint surface of the knee, which is a well established
cause for OSS development (16). Knee extensor
mechanism dysfunction is veryoften cited in literature as a
main contributing cause for OSS (9, 20). The extensor
mechanism in the knee consists of the quadriceps muscle
(rectus femoris), patella, patellar tendon, patella
retinacula, and the tibial tuberosity (figure 1)(21). The
patellar is subjected to great forces from its attachment to
the quadriceps rectus femoris muscle (proximally) and the
patellar tendon (distally). The hamstrings are also
undergoing the same stresses as the quadriceps, because of
the difference between the growth rate of the femur, and
the hamstring muscle groups. Increased hamstring
tightness causes increased patellarfemoral joint reaction
forces because of an increased knee flexion moment, which
means the quadriceps has to pull harder during athletic
activities, consequently placing more traction force on the
tibial tubercle (49), Thus it is critical to restore balance
between the quadriceps and hamstring strength, and
flexibility ratios.
There is debate regarding the correct strength H/Q
(hamstring/quadriceps) ratio with regard to injury
prevention, but a ratio 0.6 at an angular velocity of 1.05
rad.s-1 is frequently quoted as the standard for injury
prevention and rehabilitation (50). To a coach this means
nothing, as he/she cannot test it. However regularly testing
and monitoring the gymnast hamstring and quadriceps
ROM and performing 1 hamstring strengthening exercise
for every 3 quadriceps dominant exercises will generally
help maintain this ratio balanced. In a study by Hiroshi
Ikeda et al (1999) published in the journal of orthopedic
surgery, they looked at quadriceps strength, between
athletic and non-athletic boys, with and without OSS. They
determined that repeated traction of the quadriceps
muscle on the tibial tuberosity due to abnormal quadriceps
tightness, and increased eccentric quadriceps strength,
contributed to the development of OSS. Tight quadriceps
muscles are not resilient enough to absorb ground reaction
forces on impact; as a consequence forces act directly on
the bone-tendon junction of the tibial tuberosity (24).
In most cases OSS is treated with conservative therapy, as
it is normally a self-limiting condition. Once the apophysis
and epiphysis close, the symptoms of the condition usually
end. This happens at around 18yrs of age for boys and
girls, with an excellent prognosis for full recovery (1).
Complications can arise during and after skeletal maturity,
as a results patients not following physician’s
recommendations, and continue to take full part in sports,
without any activity modification or rest (1). The typical
complications are tibial tuberosity deformity, which is
almost inevitable, nonunion of tendon to tibial tuberosity,
patella alta after skeletal maturity, increasing likelihood
of lateral patellar dislocation, knee degenerative arthritis,
bursal chondromatosis, which has been documented only
once, as a result of untreated OSS. Softening of cartilage,
displaced avulsion fracture of tibial tubercle, usually
occurs in athletes without pre-existing OSS, but the most
common reported complication is ossicle formation.
(9,1,26,4,10). Most of these complications arise due to
extensor mechanism dysfunction, and thus are treated by
restoring normal extensor mechanism function (39).
V. Uzunov, Gym Coach, Vol.2 (2008) 39-45 Commentary Article
©2008 The Gym Press. All rights reserved - 42 -
Ossicle formation occurs as a result of a partial tear
developing in the secondary ossification centre during the
progressive stage. If the tear extends to the anterior parts
that consist of bone and cartilage, small regions of the
preossification or anterior secondary ossification centers
may be avulsed superiorly forming an open-shell like
separation (Figure 2, C). (2). If the gap formed is small,
fibrocartilage can bridge the gap and ossify, with such a
situation leading to the healing stage of OSS (2, 4). If the
gap is large, fibrocatilage will not be able to bridge the gap
and, the avulsed fragment/s mature to form separate
ossicles/s within the patellar tendon, with such a situation
being characteristic of the terminal stage of OSS (2).
Approximately 10% of ossicles fail to unite with the tibial
tubercle. These patients will continue to experience
anterior knee pain, even after ossification of tibial
tuberosity, and will require surgical excision to alleviate
the pain (4).
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of OSD is not clinically challenging once signs
and symptoms are clearly present, but it is very difficult to
diagnose clinically at its onset (12, 2). In most
circumstances patient who have obvious signs and
symptoms, can be diagnosed by a family physician, with a
physical exam (15). However based on the study by Atsushi
Hirano et al. (2002) it is advised that a specialist, sports
doctor, or physiotherapist, make the diagnosis using a
physical exam and an MRI (ideally) or X-ray as well. This
is particularly applicable if check-up is done at onset of
symptoms. Prior to making a definite diagnosis, doctors
should also rule out other possible anterior knee pain
conditions, such as, Sindling-Larson-Johansson syndrome,
osteomyelities, tibia, fibula, femur or patellar fracture,
tumor, patellar tendonitis (jumpers-knee), slipped capital
femoral epiphysis, Perthes disease, petellofemoral
syndrome, and osteochondrosritis dissecans, some of
which may require a imaging study , and thus further
supporting the need to have and MRI or X-ray done for a
definitive diagnosis (1,17, 10).
The standard clinical diagnostic signs, symptoms, and tests
are:
1. Pain, swelling and aching around tibial tubercle, with the
possibility that the tibial tubercle is reddened, raised or
tender to palpation (12),
2. Visible enlargement or prominence of tibial tubercle (1).
3. Pain generally occurs during activities involving the legs
(especially eccentric contractions of quadriceps) and goes
away with rests (24).
4. There is no history of the knee giving way, locking out,
or catching (10).
5. Pain worsens with activities that require squatting,
walking up and down stairs, and forceful contractions of
the quadriceps muscle. (17).
6. No signs of effusion, minuscule damage, and normal
neurovascular examination (1).
7. No limitations in the hip ROM, and especially no pain
with hip internal rotation (symptoms of slipped capital
femoral epiphysis and Perthes disease, which can cause
referred pain to knee) (10)
Commonly used diagnostic tests for OSD are:
1. Pain elicited with extension of the knee at 900 of flexion,
while a resisted straight-leg raise does not. (14)
2. An alternative test is to force the tibia into internal
rotation, while slowly extending the knee from 900 of
flexion; at about 30deg, flexion produces pain that
subsides immediately with external rotation of the tibia.
(40)
3. Pain can also be reproduced with passive hyperflexion of
the knee. (17). 4. A positive Ely test (19)
5. Point tenderness eliciting pain approximately 2inches
under knee cap over tibial tuberosity. (18)
6. Full ROM is available at the knee, but tightness in
hamstring muscle group is noticeable (1).
OSS Prevention and Rehabilitation
As the late Dutch humanist and theologian Desiderius
Erasmus Roterodamus said “prevention is better then
cure”. This is always the case, and it’s important that
coaches understand and implement preventative measure
to identify young gymnasts who are prone or at greater risk
of developing this condition. From the discussion of the
pathophysiology of the condition, there are several
preventative strategies useful to coaches.
1-Regular physical testing of the quadriceps and
hamstrings to determine the risk of imbalance in strength
and flexibility.
2- Coach awareness. Coaches need to know the signs and
symptoms of kids at risk, or who are showing potential
onset symptoms.
3- Adding regular quadriceps stretches into every
flexibility program, from day 1 of sport involvement, to
balance out all the hamstring flexibility done in gymnastics
4- Inclusion of 1 hamstring exercise for every 3 quadriceps
exercises, matched in intensity.
5- Regular height measurements of gymnasts in order to
be able to track height velocity. Its important to be aware
of when the gymnasts is having/starting a growth spurt as
gymnasts are most at risk during this developmental stage.
Gymnasts undergoing a growth spurt should have their
training revised to reduce the volume and frequency of
high intensity, high impact, lower body activity, which
involves strong eccentric quadriceps contractions such as
tumbling on the floor, vaulting, and repetitive high
landings. Gymnasts can continue to work their skills, but
at a modified and reduced rate while undergoing the
growth spurt.
It is important to be vigilant for gymnasts, who show signs
and symptoms, and to monitor their training programs
effectively, to prevent gymnasts from doing too much to
soon. This condition is easily preventable with smart
training and program design.
For gymnasts who have developed this condition treatment
without complications can be divided into three phases:
acute, recovery, maintenance. Treatment management is
V. Uzunov, Gym Coach, Vol.2 (2008) 39-45 Commentary Article
©2008 The Gym Press. All rights reserved - 43 -
usually conservative, for 6months to a 1 year (12). During
the acute phase treatment management should
concentrate on reducing the signs and symptoms of
inflammation, and pain (12). The best treatment
management depends on the severity of the symptoms,
and the initial management of the first signs leading to the
initial diagnosis of OSS. This has a significant impact on
the course of the rehabilitative process during the recovery
phase (12, 10). Recommended options to manage the
condition are: RICE (rest, ice, compression, elevate),
warming up properly before activity, icing for 20min after
activity, short term rest or immobilization (2-3wks),
activity modification like
running slower, avoiding
deep knee bending
footwear, and use of a
infrapetellar strap (figure 3)
during activity (12,18, 1,14
31,9,28,64). Unfortunately
these remedies have shown
little evidence of improving
outcome, but have been
shown to be effective means
of pain management (35).
For acute flare-ups, and
relief of inflammation, the
use of anti-inflammatory
medication, an algesics, and
cryotherapy is
recommended. If pain is mild, and there is no
inflammation, using a heating pad or warm, moist
compresses for 15min be fore activity can help reduce
symptoms and pain, as well as 15-20min of icing after
activity (6,32). During the acute phase it is very important
that symptoms of inflammation are first controlled.
Physical therapy is not commenced immediately as it can
exacerbate acute symptoms. For the ambitious athlete
suspending physical activity altogether is not an option, so
coaches must effectively modify their training program till
pain is relieved. The only form of physical therapy allowed
is hamstring, calf, and hip stretching which can begin
immediately as recommended by a qualified
physiotherapist not a GP (6, 14). Long term immobilization
(6wks+) is only recommended for extremely severe cases,
(especially in children) (12), usually enforced by using a
cast where compliance to conservative treatment is not
adhered too (27,10).
The recovery phase can start once pain is controlled and
the inflammation disappears. The main focus of the
rehabilitation program is to return the patient to his or her
sport or activity as safely as possible (7). Hamstring and
quadriceps stretching and hamstring strength are the main
objectives. (12) Quadriceps strength in usually not a
problem in young athletes, but it can become a problem in
chronic cases, resulting in muscle atrophy, requiring
strengthening exercises as well (12). Initially in the
strengthen program for chronic cases with muscle atrophy,
exercises should be done with minimal knee flexion in
order to reduce the load on the tibial tubercle (19).
Exercises should be pain-free, involving isometrics or low
load high repetition knee extension exercises (12).
Stretches must target the quadriceps muscle belly with
minimal stress to the tibial tubercle, two joint stretching
exercises should be incorporated only when adequate
flexibility is achieved. (12) Overzealous stretching can lead
to complication rather than benefits and should be
discouraged. (12). Studies show that physical load
restriction during the acute and recovery phases has great
benefits in prevention of complications, and during the
course of OSD. (33).
Conservative therapy is initiated during the normal, early
and progressive stages of the course of OSS, there is a 90%
chance of an early recovery and progression to the
maintenance stage and eventually the healing stage if
treatment begins with the first signs of OSS. (2). From the
study by Atsushi Hirano et al (2002), it takes on average
3.8weeks to return to modified training if treatment starts
from the normal or early stage, 6.3 weeks from progressive
stage, and 13.2 weeks from the terminal stage, but usually
not symptom free. In the terminal stage, symptoms
alleviation is a result of reduced patellar tendonitis which
is a secondary complication. (2). In other literature the
most often reported prognosis is 6-24months till return to
sport (1). However it must be remembered that “everyone
recovers from injury at a different rate” (7), and these
recovery times are averages, and should only be used a
guidelines. Gymnasts can also continue working on
elements that do not aggravate their condition.
The progression to the maintenance phase is usually
through the recommendation by a general physician or
physiotherapist after an examination, showing clear signs
of recovery. Care must be taken to ensure that the athlete
is not returning to sport too soon, as complication can
arise. (1). A number of functional tests can be performed to
test the patient’s ability to safely return to sport.
Functional progressions that can be used to determine if
patient is ready to return to sport are (7):
1. The patient tibial tuberosity is no longer tender to touch.
2. The injured knee can be fully straightened and bent
without pain.
3. The knee and leg have regained normal strength
compared to the uninjured knee and leg.
4. Individual is able to jog straight ahead without limping.
5. Individual is able to sprint straight ahead without
limping.
6. Individual is able to do 45-degree cuts.
7. Individual is able to do 90-degree cuts.
8. Individual is able to do 20-yard figure-of-eight runs.
9. Individual is able to do 10-yard figure-of-eight runs.
10. Individual is able to jump on both legs without pain
and jump on the injured leg without pain If pain returns it
is recommended that patient take a further 6months,
continuing conservative therapy, and rehabilitation
program (26).
Figure 3 – A standard
infrapetella strap, has been shown
to decrease pain in 19 of 24 (79%)
knees after 6 to 8 weeks of use in
one study (64).
V. Uzunov, Gym Coach, Vol.2 (2008) 39-45 Commentary Article
©2008 The Gym Press. All rights reserved - 44 -
CONCLUSIONS
OSS is a common overuse injury that occurs equally in
active boys and girl who participate in sports involving
regular running and jumping, particularly if done on hard
surfaces. There are 5 stages to the condition, with
symptoms presenting themselves in the Early stage. The
condition is self-limiting, and can be treated effective if
diagnosed in the early stage with conservative treatment,
and rehabilitative exercises, with minimal restrictions. If
the condition is untreated and it progresses to the terminal
stage, the condition can greatly restrict sport participation,
and may eventually lead to the need for surgery if ossicles
calcify.
Coaches should understand the aetiology of this condition
in order to indentify athletes at risk and implement the
necessary injury preventative measures. Rehabilitation is
effective only when the acute symptoms are under control
Every care is taken to assure the accuracy of the information published
within this article. The views and opinions expressed within this article,
are those of the author/s, and no responsibility can be accepted by The
Gym Press, Gym Coach or the author for the consequences of actions
based on the advice
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
This article is an abbreviated version of original manuscript by Valentin Uzunov (2007). An in-depth look at the pathophysiology and treatment of Osgood-Schlatter
Disease. Research project submission for Massey University. If you would like a copy of the full unmodified version, contact Valentin Uzunov a
valentin.uzunov@gmail.com
Address for correspondence: Valentin Uzunov, Hataitai Gymnastics, Wellington, New Zealand.
valentin.uzunov@gmail.com
REFERENCES and RECOMMENDED READINGS
1 .Munisha Mehra Bhatia (2004). Osgood-Schlatter Disease, Emedicine [e-journal]
http://www.emedicine.com/sports/topic89.htm, date accessed: Jul 13 2004
2. Atsushi Hirano, Toru Fukubayashi, Tomoo Ishii, Naoyuki Ochiai. (2002) ‘Magnetic resonance imaging of Osgood-
Schlatter disease: the course of the disease’. Skeletal Radiology, Vol 31; 334-342
3. Antonio Gigante, Claudia Bevilacqua, Massimo G Bonetti & Francesco Greco (2003) ‘Increased external tibial torsion in
Osgood-Schlatter disease’. Acta Orthopaedica Scandinavica, Vol. 74 No.4;431-436
4. Kazunari Ishida, Ryosuke Kuroda, Keizo Sato, Tetsuhiro Iguchi, Minoru Doita, Masahiro Kurosaka, & Tetsuji
Yamamoto (2005) ‘Infrapatellar Bursal Osteochondromatosis Associated with Unresolved Osgood-Schlatter Disease’.
Journal of Bone and Join Surgery, Vol. 87 No.12; 2780-2783
5. Sue E. Huether & Kathryn L. McCance (2004) Understanding Pathophysiology; Missouri St Louise; Mosby.
6. L. Pearce McCarty III (2005). ‘Treating patients with patellofemoral conditions--Most can be managed nonoperatively’.
The Journal of Musculoskeletal Medicine, Vol. 22; 667-673
7. McKesson Health Solutions (2004).’Osgood-Schlatter Disease’. Pediatric Advisor. Jan 1. 2270.
9. James F. Dunn Jr. (1990) ‘Osgood-Schlatter disease’. American Family Physician, Vol.41, No.1; 173(4).
10. Eric J. Wall (1998).’ Osgood- Schlatter Disease; Practical Treatment for a Self-Limiting Condition’. The Physician and
Sportsmedicine. Vol.26, Iss. 3; 29
11. Cliggot Publishing Co. (2001). Consultant, Vol 41,Iss 10; 1479
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... To provide a closer look at current treatment recommendations, 15 articles were collated (Gholve et al., 2007;Mital & Matza, 1977;Antich & Brewster, 1985;Uzunov, 2008;Eberhardt, 2009;Charrette, 2012;Lipman & John, 2015;Beaubois, Dessus, & Boudenot, 2016;Vaishya, Azizi, Agarwal, & Vijay, 2016;Circi, Atalay, & Beyzadeoglu, 2017;Smith & Varacallo, 2018;Cairns et al., 2018;Nuhrenborger & Gaulrapp, 2018;Andrew J Kienstra, 2019;Ladenhauf, Seitlinger, & Green, 2019) (Table 3). Thirteen reviews were flagged as key reviews during title abstract screening of database search results, and grey literature searching additionally provided a clinical guideline (Andrew J Kienstra, 2019) and a review article (Uzunov, 2008). ...
... To provide a closer look at current treatment recommendations, 15 articles were collated (Gholve et al., 2007;Mital & Matza, 1977;Antich & Brewster, 1985;Uzunov, 2008;Eberhardt, 2009;Charrette, 2012;Lipman & John, 2015;Beaubois, Dessus, & Boudenot, 2016;Vaishya, Azizi, Agarwal, & Vijay, 2016;Circi, Atalay, & Beyzadeoglu, 2017;Smith & Varacallo, 2018;Cairns et al., 2018;Nuhrenborger & Gaulrapp, 2018;Andrew J Kienstra, 2019;Ladenhauf, Seitlinger, & Green, 2019) (Table 3). Thirteen reviews were flagged as key reviews during title abstract screening of database search results, and grey literature searching additionally provided a clinical guideline (Andrew J Kienstra, 2019) and a review article (Uzunov, 2008). ...
Article
Full-text available
Objectives Osgood-Schlatter disease (OSD) is a sport- and growth-associated knee pathology with locally painful alterations around the tibial tuberosity apophysis. Up to 10% of adolescents are affected by OSD. Treatment is predominantly conservative. The aims of this systematic review are to comprehensively identify conservative treatment options for OSD, compare their effectiveness in selected outcomes, and describe potential research gaps. Methods A systematic literature search was conducted using CENTRAL, CINAHL, EMBASE, MEDLINE, and PEDro databases. In addition, ongoing and unpublished clinical studies, dissertations, and other grey literature on OSD were searched. We also systematically retrieved review articles for extraction of treatment recommendations. Results Of 767 identified studies, thirteen were included, comprising only two randomised controlled trials (RCTs). The included studies were published from 1948 to 2019 and included 747 patients with 937 affected knees. Study quality was poor to moderate. In addition to the studies, 15 review articles were included, among which the most prevalent treatment recommendations were compiled. Conclusion Certain therapeutic approaches, such as stretching, have apparent efficacy, but no RCT comparing specific exercises with sham or usual-care treatment exists. Carefully controlled studies on well-described treatment approaches are needed to establish which conservative treatment options are most effective for patients with OSD.
... To provide a closer look at current treatment recommendations, 15 articles were collated (Gholve et al., 2007;Mital & Matza, 1977;Antich & Brewster, 1985;Uzunov, 2008;Eberhardt, 2009;Charrette, 2012;Lipman & John, 2015;Beaubois, Dessus, & Boudenot, 2016;Vaishya, Azizi, Agarwal, & Vijay, 2016;Circi, Atalay, & Beyzadeoglu, 2017;Smith & Varacallo, 2018;Cairns et al., 2018;Nuhrenborger & Gaulrapp, 2018;Andrew J Kienstra, 2019;Ladenhauf, Seitlinger, & Green, 2019) (Table 3). Thirteen reviews were flagged as key reviews during title abstract screening of database search results, and grey literature searching additionally provided a clinical guideline (Andrew J Kienstra, 2019) and a review article (Uzunov, 2008). ...
... To provide a closer look at current treatment recommendations, 15 articles were collated (Gholve et al., 2007;Mital & Matza, 1977;Antich & Brewster, 1985;Uzunov, 2008;Eberhardt, 2009;Charrette, 2012;Lipman & John, 2015;Beaubois, Dessus, & Boudenot, 2016;Vaishya, Azizi, Agarwal, & Vijay, 2016;Circi, Atalay, & Beyzadeoglu, 2017;Smith & Varacallo, 2018;Cairns et al., 2018;Nuhrenborger & Gaulrapp, 2018;Andrew J Kienstra, 2019;Ladenhauf, Seitlinger, & Green, 2019) (Table 3). Thirteen reviews were flagged as key reviews during title abstract screening of database search results, and grey literature searching additionally provided a clinical guideline (Andrew J Kienstra, 2019) and a review article (Uzunov, 2008). ...
Preprint
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Background: Osgood-Schlatter disease (OSD) is a sport- and growth-associated knee pathology with painful osteochondrosis around the tibial tuberosity. Up to 10% of adolescents are affected by OSD. Treatment is primarily conservative or non-operative and includes injections, ice, braces, casts, tape and/or physiotherapy. However, treatment outcomes are often insufficiently described and there is lack of evidence for current best practice.Objective: The aims of this systematic review are to comprehensively identify conservative or non-operative treatment options for OSD, to compare their effectiveness in selected outcomes, and to describe potential research gaps. and to describe potential research gaps.Methods: This systematic review was conducted according to the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) statement. CENTRAL, CINAHL, EMBASE and MEDLINE via Ovid, and PEDro were searched through to January 6, 2020. In addition, ongoing and unpublished clinical studies, dissertations, and other grey literature on OSD were retrieved. We included prospective, retrospective, case control, randomised, and non-randomised studies reporting on the effectiveness of any conservative or non-operative treatment of 6- to 28-year-old OSD patients. Studies written in English, German, or French were included. The quality of the included studies was assessed using the PEDro scale and extracted outcome data were narratively synthesized. In addition, we also systematically retrieved review articles for extraction of treatment recommendations.Results: Of 767 identified studies, thirteen were included: two randomised controlled trials (RCTs), two prospective and eight retrospective observational studies, and one case series. Eight studies had no control group. The included studies were published from 1948 to 2019 and included 747 patients (563 male, 119 female, 65 sex not reported) with 937 affected knees. The study quality was poor to moderate. The two included RCTs examined the effectiveness of surplus dextrose-injection in OSD patients treated with local anaesthetics injection and came to opposite conclusions. Other than that, inter-study heterogeneity prohibited any descriptive cumulative analyses. Among the 15 review articles, the most prevalent treatment recommendations were activity modification (15/15), quadriceps and hamstring stretching (13/15), medication (11/15), ice (11/15), strengthening of the quadriceps (9/15), and knee straps or brace (8/15).Conclusion: Conflicting evidence exists to support the use of dextrose injections. Certain therapeutic approaches, such as stretching, seem to work, but no RCT comparing specific exercises with sham or usual care treatment exists. Carefully controlled studies on well- described treatment approaches are needed to establish which conservative or non-operative treatment options are most effective for patients with OSD.
Article
Full-text available
A 14-year-old female presented to the sports physiotherapy with a diagnosis of Osgood-Schlatter's disease (OSD), a condition particularly prevalent in adolescents engaged in sports with repetitive knee motions, such as volleyball. This ailment commonly manifests at the tibia, directly beneath the patella, eliciting discomfort and inflammation. The chronic overuse injuries involve repetitive activities inducing fatigue in specific anatomical structures. Adequate recovery mechanisms allow for tissue adaptation, mitigating the risk of injury. In the absence of proper recovery, microtrauma ensues, instigating inflammation mediated by substances like histamines. The release of inflammatory cells and enzymes inflicts damage on local tissue, and prolonged stress contributes to degenerative changes, resulting in weakness, diminished flexibility, and chronic pain. These manifestations are intimately associated with OSD in chronic or recurrent instances. The primary symptom of OSD is knee pain, often of sufficient severity to induce limping. Patients report discomfort during activities such as kneeling, descending stairs, prolonged stationary positions, prolonged episodes of sitting with the knee rendered immobile, and engagement in sporting activities. This case study specifically underscores the efficacy of tailored physiotherapy in the management of OSD among adolescent volleyball players. The study's findings indicate that the patient successfully alleviated symptoms, facilitating recovery with improved outcomes. Furthermore, the physiotherapy regimen appears instrumental in enhancing the patient's functional mobility, as evidenced by the study's outcomes.
Article
In order to investigate the causes of Osgood-Schlatter disease (OSD), and find a way for its prevention in adolescent athletes, the quadriceps strength and tension were measured in 187 boys with OSD. The subjects were divided into 2 groups: A+OSD, 77 athletes with OSD and NA+OSD, 110 non- athletes with OSD. The following 3 factors were examined: (1) quadriceps strength in concentric and eccentric contraction, (2) quadriceps tightness, and (3) the laterality of the involved knee. The eccentric strength and tightness of the quadriceps in the A+OSD group were greater than that in the NA+OSD group. Although there was no significant difference in quadriceps strength between the uninvolved and involved sides, quadriceps tightness was more common in the involved side than that in the uninvolved side in A+OSD. Quadriceps tightness may be caused by fatigue and decreased stretchability of the quadriceps muscle owing to over-use in sporting activities. The involved knee had a tendency to be a dominant leg, defined as a take-off leg, in the great majority of A+OSD. The dominant leg is susceptible to eccentric quadriceps contraction while jumping or landing when playing sport.
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Isokinetic moment ratios of the hamstrings (H) and quadriceps (Q) muscle groups, and their implication in muscle imbalance, have been investigated for more than three decades. The conventional concentric H/Q ratio with its normative value of 0.6 has been at the forefront of the discussion. This does not account for the joint angle at which moment occurs and the type of muscle action involved. Advances towards more functional analyses have occurred such that previous protocols are being re-examined raising questions about their ability to demonstrate a relationship between thigh muscle imbalance and increased incidence or risk of knee injury. This article addresses the function of the hamstring-quadriceps ratio in the interpretation of this relationship using the ratios Hecc/Qcon (ratio of eccentric hamstring strength to concentric quadriceps strength, representative of isolated knee extension) and Hcon/Qecc (ratio of concentric hamstring strength to eccentric quadriceps strength, representative of isolated knee flexion).
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With the increasingly competitive nature of many youth sports and with single-sport specialization occurring at young ages, overuse injuries are common among young athletes. Several growth-related factors contribute to the development of overuse injuries in children and adolescents, including the susceptibility of growth cartilage to injury and the adolescent growth spurt. This article will discuss these unique factors and provide an overview of the diagnosis and treatment of overuse injuries in this age group. Specific measures aimed at preventing overuse injuries in young athletes also will be presented.
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If your doctor has told you that your knee pain is caused by Osgood-Schlatter disease (OSD), you're not alone. OSD is common in active, rapidly growing teens. It usually goes away on its own within 12 to 24 months, but during its course, you and your doctor can work together to cope with the symptoms.
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Osgood-Schlatter disease is one of the most common causes of knee pain in active adolescents. It is a generally benign disturbance at the junction of the patellar tendon and the tibial tubercle apophysis, and treatment during its 12- to 24-month course should be matched to severity. Mild symptoms require only patient education and moderation of activity, but severe symptoms call for a period of rest (or, rarely, immobilization) followed by aggressive quadriceps strengthening. Other conditions such as Sinding-Larsen-Johansson disease may occur simultaneously, and long-term effects can include a prominence on the anterior knee or painful kneeling.
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With the growth of youth sports programs, overuse injuries in young people have become common. Making the diagnosis can be challenging, but often the real hurdles are in identifying the causes of injury. Growth-related factors require special considerations in injury management. A directed history assessing these and other causative factors and a systematic exam help formulate a comprehensive rehabilitation program. Recommendations for a successful return to activity and prevention of reinjury include avoiding heavy training loads and early sport-specific training, taking adequate rest periods, and ensuring proper supervision.
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Osgood-Schlatter disease is a generally benign, self-limited knee condition most commonly found in rapidly growing and athletically active adolescents. Diagnosis is based on clinical and radiographic examination. Although the etiology of this disorder is controversial, chronic microtrauma to the tibial tuberosity secondary to overuse of the quadriceps muscle is suspected. Management strategies usually include analgesics and restrictions on physical activities involving the knee. Surgical treatment may be required in recurrent, disabling cases or for removal of a cosmetic deformity.
Article
During the period of 1976 to 1981, a total of 412 young athletes contacted the Turku Sports Medical Research Unit's (TSMRU) Outpatient Sports Clinic with 586 com plaints. These records included 68 athletes with Os good-Schlatter's disease (OSD), who were initially pre scribed an average of 2 months' rest from any physical activity causing pain. Symptoms of tibial tuberosity pain occurred first at the average age of 13.1 years. Accord ing to the retrospective questionnaire, the pain caused complete cessation of training for an average of 3.2 months, and the disease interfered with fully effective training for an average of 7.3 months. According to a retrospective questionnaire given to 389 students (191 girls and 198 boys), 50 (12.9%) had suffered from OSD. Nearly one-half of the students, 193 (49.6%), had been active in sports at the age of 13, and 41 (21.2%) of them had suffered from OSD. In those students who were not active in sports, the incidence was only nine (4.5%; P < 0.001). The incidence (32%) was higher in the siblings of the OSD patients of TSMRU who were active in sports than in the corresponding student group (21.2%). In a group of 22 patients from the TSMRU who had suffered from Sever's disease (calcaneal apophysitis), the inci dence of OSD (68%) was significantly higher than in students who were active in sports (P < 0.001).
Article
Osgood-Schlatter disease, a disorder involving the growing tibial tuberosity, is a condition that causes pain, swelling and tenderness. The pull of the ligamentum patella on the tibial tuberosity may account for the symptoms. An infrapatella strap that had been effective in treating patellofemoral disorders was found to benefit this condition as well. A success rate of 79.1% was achieved in treating 24 knees in 17 patients. The device has a high level of patient acceptance, particularly in bilateral cases where the usual methods of knee immobilization caused considerable disability.