Knee Pain in Active Teens: Could It Be Osgood-Schlatter Disease?
At Bondi Podiatry, we often treat young patients who are passionate about sport—only to be held back by knee pain. One of the most frequent causes of knee pain in growing adolescents is Osgood-Schlatter Disease, a condition that’s closely linked to rapid growth and increased activity levels.
The good news? With the right care and guidance, most kids recover fully and can get back to the sports they love.
What Is Osgood-Schlatter Disease?
Osgood-Schlatter Disease is a traction apophysitis—a condition where the patellar tendon pulls on the growth plate at the top of the shinbone (tibia), just below the kneecap. It’s most common during growth spurts, when bones grow quickly and muscles and tendons struggle to keep up.
This repetitive traction causes inflammation and pain at the tibial tuberosity (the bony bump just below the kneecap), and in some cases, a noticeable lump may form.
Who’s Affected?
Active boys and girls between the ages of 10 and 15
Teens involved in sports like soccer, basketball, netball, athletics, or ballet
Children going through a growth spurt
Kids with tight quadriceps, poor lower limb alignment, or foot biomechanics issues like overpronation
Key Signs and Symptoms
Pain and swelling just below the kneecap, especially after exercise
A visible bump or lump at the top of the shinbone
Pain that worsens with running, jumping, or kneeling
Tightness in the thigh (quadriceps) muscles
Limping or discomfort when going up and down stairs
Why Biomechanics Matter
Biomechanical factors—like poor foot posture, uneven leg length, or muscle imbalances—can increase strain on the knees and aggravate Osgood-Schlatter symptoms. At Bondi Podiatry, we look beyond the knee to assess how the feet, ankles, hips, and gait are contributing to the issue.
Addressing these biomechanical imbalances can reduce stress on the patellar tendon and promote faster healing.
How We Treat Osgood-Schlatter at Bondi Podiatry
We provide a personalised treatment plan based on your child’s age, activity level, and biomechanics. Treatment may include:
Activity modification: Reducing high-impact sport while inflammation settles
Custom foot orthotics: To correct foot posture and reduce knee stress
Footwear advice: Ensuring supportive shoes for sport and school
Stretching and strengthening: Targeting the quadriceps, hamstrings, and calves
Icing and anti-inflammatory strategies: To manage pain and swelling
Taping or bracing: For extra support during activity
We work closely with parents, GPs, physios, and coaches to keep kids moving safely.
Will My Child Grow Out of It?
Yes—Osgood-Schlatter usually resolves once growth stops, but it can persist for months or even a year. In some cases, a bony bump remains, but this rarely causes long-term issues. The key is early management and biomechanical correction to prevent chronic pain and limit time off sport.
Concerned About Your Teen’s Knee Pain?
Don’t wait it out—book a biomechanical assessment with Bondi Podiatry today. With the right support, your child can keep growing strong and moving well.
