From the Research
Osgood-Schlatter disease in adults is typically managed with conservative treatment, and surgery is rarely needed, but may be considered for severe cases with persistent pain or prominent bony fragments that cause functional limitations, as supported by the most recent study 1.
Overview of Osgood-Schlatter Disease
Osgood-Schlatter disease is a self-limiting condition that commonly occurs in adolescence, but can persist into adulthood, causing chronic knee pain and a bony prominence at the tibial tuberosity. The condition is characterized by inflammation and partial avulsion of the tibial tuberosity apophysis, which can leave residual changes into adulthood.
Treatment Options
Treatment of Osgood-Schlatter disease in adults focuses on conservative management, including:
- Rest from aggravating activities
- Ice application for 15-20 minutes several times daily when pain flares up
- Over-the-counter pain medications such as ibuprofen (400-600mg three times daily with food) or acetaminophen (500-1000mg every 6 hours as needed)
- Physical therapy exercises to strengthen quadriceps and hamstrings while improving flexibility, with specific exercises like straight leg raises, hamstring stretches, and quadriceps stretches performed daily
Surgical Intervention
Surgery is rarely needed, but may be considered for severe cases with persistent pain or prominent bony fragments that cause functional limitations, as noted in the study 2. Arthroscopic surgery is beneficial over an open procedure due to early postoperative recovery, no incisional scar in front of the tuberosity, and the ability to address concomitant intra-articular pathology.
Prognosis and Quality of Life
The overall prognosis for Osgood-Schlatter syndrome is good, except for some discomfort in kneeling and activity restriction in a few cases, as reported in the study 2. With proper treatment, most adult cases resolve within weeks to months, and quality of life can be improved with conservative management and, if necessary, surgical intervention.