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Osgood-Schlatter disease - Treatment

Alternative Names

Osteochondrosis

Treatment:

Treatment starts with rest, ice, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen. In many cases, the condition will get better using these methods.

In the rare case where symptoms do not go away, a cast or brace may be used to support the leg until it heals. This typically takes 6 - 8 weeks. Crutches may be used for walking to keep weight off the painful leg.

Rarely, surgery may be needed.

Expectations (prognosis):

Most cases get better on their own after a few weeks or months. Most cases eventually go away once the child finished growing.

Adolescents should be allowed to play sports if the activity does not cause discomfort. However, the condition will get better faster if such activity is kept to a minimum.

Complications:

Chronic pain is the most significant complication.

Calling your health care provider:

Call your health care provider if your child has knee or leg pain, or if pain does not get better with treatment.

Lower leg muscles

Leg pain (Osgood-Schlatter)

Reviewed last on: 12/1/2008
Neil K. Kaneshiro, MD, MHA, Clinical Assistant Professor of Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

References

Patel DR. Musculoskeletal injuries in sports. Prim Care. Jun 2006; 33(2): 545-79.

Cassas KJ. Childhood and adolescent sports-related overuse injuries. Am Fam Physician. Mar 2006; 73(6): 1014-22.

Mercier LR. Osgood-Schlatter disease. Ferri’s Clinical Advisor: Instant Diagnosis and Treatment. 9th ed. St. Louis, Mo: Mosby; 2009:593.

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