Osgood
Schlatter Disease (OSD) describes the inflammation of the growth plate just below the knee in children. Despite its name, it is not so much a
disease as it is a painful growth-related condition. It is clinically referred to as tibial tuberosity apophysitis because
of the location of the growth plate at the tibial tuberosity, which is the bony bump at the top of your shin-bone (tibia) and just below the
knee. Growth plates are located on the ends of growing bones and will eventually turn into solid bone when we reach full maturity.
Until they do, they are vulnerable to irritation from stress, tension and impact forces. OSD is an example of a ‘growing pain’, the most
common of which occurs at the growth plate at the back of the heel bone (Sever’s Disease).
The painful symptoms of Osgood Schlatter Disease are caused by abnormal tension and forces at the top of the knee that irritate or damage the growth plate and cause it to become inflamed. Damage occurs because the area of growing bone is vulnerable as it’s still developing and is not yet solid bone, so is unable to withstand the tensile forces or high load that it can be exposed to. This is often thought to be caused by the repetitive pull from the quadriceps on the tibial tuberosity, where it inserts after crossing the knee as the patellar tendon. Other contributing factors may include:
Symptoms tend to present during times of growth, particularly between the ages of 8 and 15. OSD can affect one or both knees and typically affect active kids. Symptoms can include:
While mild cases of Osgood-Schlatter Disease may resolve fairly quickly, others may suffer from painful symptoms for years. OSD has shown to respond well to conservative treatment. Treatment starts with addressing the present painful symptoms, which is often achieved using the PRICE principles (protection, rest, ice, compression and elevation). Following this, treatment focuses on addressing the cause of the problem to stop the symptoms returning. This may include:
If you’re unsure whether you should wear walking or running shoes when exercising, this article is for you.
We explain the differences between walking and running shoes and how to determine which one is best for your feet. When it comes to buying a new pair of shoes, most people walk into a store expecting to just “find something comfy.” Then, suddenly, you’re asked: Are you looking for
walking shoes or running shoes? And that’s where the confusion begins. Because for many people, the answer isn’t that simple.
You could walk a lot – to work, around the block, chasing after the kids, or while catching up with friends. You could have also just joined
a gym or registered for the Couch to 5km. Or you could be a walker who just wants the option to go for a run if the mood strikes. So, which
shoe do you pick?
Discover why foot health is so important as we age and how Perform Podiatry supports seniors in staying mobile, independent, and pain-free. From diabetic care to personalised treatment plans, we’re here to help keep your feet happy and healthy, every step of the way.
Discover how Class IV Laser Therapy at Perform Podiatry offers powerful, drug-free relief for foot and ankle pain. Backed by science, this advanced treatment helps you heal faster and move better, without the need for surgery or medication.
Keeping your family on their feet and helping them to walk, run, play and exceed their goals is why we love getting up in the morning.
Ground Floor, One Health Building
122 Remuera Rd, Remuera
Auckland 1050, New Zealand
| MON - FRI | 7:30am – 6:30pm |
| SAT | 8:30am – 4:30pm |
| SUN | Some availability |
Make an Appointment
Online Schedule