Knee
Oschood Schlatter
by Uperform
This pathology is a growth epiphysitis of the anterior tuberosity of the knee. It is found mainly in young boys aged 10 to 16, and practicing a sport
1) A LITTLE ANATOMY:
The knee joint is made up of 3 bones: the upper femur, the lower tibia and the patella, a small mobile bone in front of the knee. During flexion/extension movements of the knee, the patella slides on the femur. It is a real reflection pulley for the quadriceps (anterior thigh muscle).
The patellar tendon is the thick, extremely strong fibrous structure that extends from the tip of the patella to the anterior tibial tuberosity, and connects the patella to the tibia bone.
2) WHAT IS OSGOOD SCHLATTER DISEASE? WHAT ARE THE LESION MECHANISMS?
This pathology is a growth epiphysitis of the anterior tuberosity of the knee. It is found mainly in young boys aged 10 to 16, and practicing a sport (most often involving overuse of the extensor apparatus).
This growth disease affects the growth cartilage, which is subjected to repeated micro-traumas. The causes are therefore almost always the same:
- Growing (too) fast
- Intensive practice of sport, in particular those using the extensor apparatus (e.g. football)
- Poor motor and muscle control
- Bad technique in the sporting gesture
3) WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS?
Symptoms may vary depending on the intensity of the pathology. Among these, we most often find:
- Pain around the anterior tibial tuberosity, worse with physical exertion
- Swelling of the area
- A loss of local sensitivity
4) IS IT SERIOUS?
The level of severity of Osgood Schlatter disease can vary. If your child experiences symptoms similar to those mentioned above, it will be important to consult a doctor quickly to determine the extent of the lesion and the resulting therapeutic choice, otherwise the problem will worsen.
These decisions will be made based on the interview, the clinical examination and the analysis of the medical imaging performed (ultrasound, etc.).
5) IS SURGERY AN OPTION?
The surgical procedure remains exceptional and will be considered in the event of repeated failures of conservative treatments or in the event of complications related to the absence or poor initial treatment.
6) CAN I CONTINUE TRAINING?
The diagnosis of Osgood Schlatter disease needs to be taken seriously from the start in order to avoid complications and aggravations.
Sports rest is necessary during the painful phase. Then, it is the importance of the symptoms, the medical images and the presence or not of a detachment that will determine the duration of the stop. This can range from one to six months. The best option should be discussed with your doctor.
7) HOW DOES THE REHABILITATION TAKE PLACE?
The physiotherapy sessions start by paying attention to the painful symptomatology of the subject. Respecting this, the work will focus on:
- Recovery of normal joint amplitudes
- Gradual rehabilitation of the joint
- Overall muscle strengthening (strength, neuromuscular control, stability, etc.)
- Re-athletics and getting back into sport (with technical work if necessary)
8) WILL I RETURN TO MY PRE-INJURY LEVEL?
This pathology, although having a favorable prognosis, needs to be taken seriously from the start.
However, provided you follow the instructions and recommendations provided by your surgeon and your therapist, your child will return to normal sports activity.
9) WHAT CAN I DO TO SPEED UP THE PROCESS?
In order to speed up the healing process, be sure to follow the recommendations of the health professionals with whom you work.
Laziness or, on the contrary, overzealousness, will be your enemies.
Conversely, discipline, rigor, perseverance as well as a positive and voluntary state of mind will help you get back in top shape as soon as possible!