Osgood-Schlatter's syndrome is anatomically straightforward.
It is caused by excessive traction (from the quadriceps through
the patellar tendon) to the superior tibial apophysis (growth line).
It can therefore only occur when the apophysis is active.
After skeletal maturity is reached (at 16 - 20 years) the line
"closes" and the syndrome completely disappears, but can
leave behind a visibly prominent tibial tubercle.
It is a self limiting disorder - pain will curtail the causative activity -
and as such the best "treatment" is a thorough explanation of the
mechanism and then advice that if it hurts - back off.
Remember to explain that "rest" in O-S does not mean stoping, but
rather modifying the activity temporarily while the apophysis is "active".
If the pain is not interfering with function, it might be possible to
continue
playing football while avoiding for example excessive crossing and shooting
practice. Thorough stretching of the quadriceps and cryo-therapy to the
tubercle post activity might be of some use.
Torje Eike, MCSP, PT
Chartered Physiotherapist
London, England
>> -----Original Message-----
> From: Lee Dawson [SMTP:[log in to unmask]]
> Sent: 13 January 2001 19:19
> To: [log in to unmask]
> Subject: Osgood Schlatter's
>
> My background is exercise and health, but I run a youth football
club(Ages
> 8-15) and have been alarmed by the increasing frequency of
> Osgood-Sclatters syndrome.(particularly in 12-15)
> I know the basics, but as there has been a lack of postings I wonder if
> any of you could suggest preventative practice (for the younger players)
> and useful advice on basic treatment, is this common as I'm led to
> believe? Is rest the only answer? Is football the prime culprit? Lets
> flood this mail list with answers and I can pass the info to the team
> managers
> Lee Dawson
> Exercise and Health Specialist
> Cardiac Rehab
> Royal Bournemouth Hospital
> (and Chairman of Langley Manor Youth F.C, Southampton!)<
|