Osgood-Schlatter Disease & Jumper’s Knee Treatment for Kids in San Antonio
What Is Osgood-Schlatter Disease?
Osgood-Schlatter Disease is a common cause of knee pain in growing children and adolescents. It occurs when the tendon that connects the kneecap (patella) to the shinbone (tibia) becomes irritated or inflamed due to repetitive stress. This stress can lead to pain, swelling, and a noticeable bump just below the kneecap.
The condition most often affects kids between the ages of 9 and 14, especially during times of rapid growth. As the bones grow quickly, the muscles and tendons may struggle to keep up, which puts extra strain on the growth plate where the tendon attaches to the shinbone.
Osgood-Schlatter Disease is especially common in active children who play sports like basketball, soccer, volleyball, or track. These activities often involve frequent running, jumping, or quick changes in direction, which can aggravate the knee.
Common Symptoms of Osgood-Schlatter Disease in Kids
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Pain Below the Kneecap
Children often feel tenderness just beneath the kneecap, especially after sports or physical activity.
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Swelling or Redness at the Top of the Shinbone
Inflammation can cause visible swelling or redness where the patellar tendon connects to the shin.
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Noticeable Bump Under the Kneecap
A firm, raised bump may develop below the kneecap over time due to irritation at the growth plate.
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Tightness in the Thigh Muscles
The quadriceps may feel tight or strained, especially in children going through a growth spurt.
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Pain When Kneeling or Squatting
Movements that put pressure on the front of the knee, like kneeling or squatting, often trigger discomfort or sharp pain.
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Limping or Avoiding Activity
Pain can cause kids to limp, favor one leg, or avoid activities they normally enjoy.
How Osgood-Schlatter Disease Is Diagnosed
Diagnosis typically begins with a physical exam and a review of your child’s symptoms and activity level. Dr. Rush will examine the knee for tenderness, swelling, and the presence of a bump just below the kneecap.
In most cases, Osgood-Schlatter Disease can be diagnosed without imaging. However, an X-ray may be used to rule out other causes of knee pain if needed.
Dr. Rush specializes in pediatric knee pain in San Antonio and provides a clear diagnosis along with a personalized care plan to help your child heal and stay active.
Osgood-Schlatter Disease Treatment in San Antonio
Most kids with Osgood-Schlatter Disease improve with simple, non-surgical care. Dr. Rush creates personalized treatment plans to reduce pain and support healing while keeping kids active when possible.
Treatment options may include:
Activity modification to limit running, jumping, or kneeling
Ice and elevation to reduce swelling
Stretching and strengthening exercises to support the knee
Knee bracing during activity for added support
Over-the-counter pain relief as needed
Surgery is rarely necessary. With proper care, most children recover fully and return to sports without long-term issues.
Meet Your Knee Specialist, Dr. Rush
Dr. Jeremy K. Rush, MD, FAAP, is San Antonio's only orthopedic surgeon who is Dual-Fellowship Trained in pediatric orthopedic surgery and sports medicine. He specializes in arthroscopic surgery of the knee, shoulder, elbow, and ankle, as well as the treatment of fractures and other injuries in young athletes.
