Osgood-Schlatter disease is an overuse injury that occurs in the
knee area of growing adolescents. It is caused by inflammation
of the tendon below the kneecap (patellar tendon) where it
attaches to the shinbone (tibia). Young adolescents who
participate in certain sports, including soccer, gymnastics,
basketball, and distance running, are most at risk for this
disease. - Knee pain - Tenderness below the kneecap Once a
diagnosis has been made, treatment is aimed at reducing the pain
and swelling. This may include the use of nonsteroidal anti-
inflammatory drugs and wrapping the knee until the child can
enjoy activity without discomfort or significant pain
afterwards. Symptoms that worsen with activity may require rest
for several months, followed by a conditioning program. In some
patients, Osgood-Schlatter symptoms may last for 2 to 3 years.
However, most symptoms will completely disappear with completion
of the adolescent growth spurt, around age 14 for girls and age
16 for boys. The American Academy of Orth