From the Research
The initial management for Osgood-Schlatter disease should focus on conservative measures, including rest, ice, and stretching exercises, as these approaches have been shown to reduce pain and inflammation while allowing continued healing 1. The cornerstone of treatment is rest from aggravating activities, particularly those involving jumping, squatting, and running.
- Ice should be applied to the painful tibial tuberosity for 15-20 minutes several times daily, especially after activity.
- Over-the-counter NSAIDs such as ibuprofen (400-600mg three times daily with food for adolescents, or as directed by weight for younger children) can help manage pain and reduce inflammation.
- Quadriceps and hamstring stretching exercises should be performed daily to reduce tension on the tibial tuberosity.
- Patellar tendon straps or knee sleeves may provide symptomatic relief during activity by redistributing forces away from the tibial tuberosity. Activity modification rather than complete cessation is recommended, allowing participation in sports and activities that don't exacerbate symptoms. This approach works because Osgood-Schlatter disease results from repetitive stress on the patellar tendon attachment during the growth spurt, causing inflammation and pain at the tibial tuberosity. These conservative measures typically lead to improvement within 2-3 weeks, though complete resolution may take months as the growth plate closes 2. It's worth noting that while surgical treatment may be considered for unresolved cases, the majority of patients can achieve disease-free resuming of sports activity with conservative treatment 3. Overall, the goal of initial management is to reduce pain and inflammation, allow continued healing, and enable patients to return to their normal activities as soon as possible, which can be achieved through conservative measures 1, 4, 5.