Osgood-Schlatter’s Disease in Kids

Osgood-Schlatter’s Disease is a common cause of knee pain in active children and teenagers, especially during rapid growth phases. At Pain Free Health Clinic — proudly serving Surrey, Langley, Richmond, and Ladner — we frequently treat young athletes who experience pain and swelling just below the kneecap, where the patellar tendon connects to the shinbone (tibial tuberosity).

With early treatment, including targeted exercises, soft tissue therapy, and kinesiology taping, we can help manage symptoms and get your child back to the activities they love.

What is Osgood-Schlatter’s Disease?

Osgood-Schlatter’s Disease is an overuse injury caused by repetitive pulling of the quadriceps muscles on the patellar tendon during growth spurts. Sports like soccer, basketball, dance, and running often trigger or worsen symptoms.

Common signs include:

• Pain and tenderness below the kneecap
• A visible bump at the top of the shinbone
• Pain that worsens with sports activities
• Tightness in the thighs (quadriceps) or hamstrings

If untreated, it can lead to persistent discomfort and limit participation in school sports and recreational activities.

How Can We Help Manage Osgood-Schlatter’s Disease?

At Pain Free Health Clinic, our experienced team of physiotherapists works with children across Surrey, Langley, Richmond, and Ladner to manage Osgood-Schlatter’s symptoms using:

• Targeted stretching and strengthening exercises
• Soft tissue mobilization (foam rolling)
• Kinesio taping for support
• Gradual return-to-sport programs

Here are three easy techniques to start managing knee pain at home:

1. Foam Rolling the Quads and IT Band

Why it helps: Tight quadriceps and IT bands pull on the kneecap and shin, increasing stress on the tendon.

How to do it:

• Place a foam roller under the front of the thigh (quadriceps).
• Gently roll from the hip down to just above the knee, stopping on tight spots.
• Roll the outer thigh (IT Band) in the same way.
• Spend 30–60 seconds per area, once or twice daily.

Tip: Roll slowly and avoid direct pressure on the painful bump below the kneecap.

Recommended for:

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2. Hip Strengthening Exercise: Side-Lying Clamshells

Why it helps: Strong hips keep the knees better aligned and reduce strain on the patellar tendon.

How to do it:

• Lie on your side with hips and knees bent at 90 degrees.
• Keeping feet together, lift the top knee while keeping the pelvis stable.
• Hold for 2 seconds, then lower slowly.
• Perform 2 sets of 15 reps per side, 3–4 times weekly.

Tip: Adding a small resistance band above the knees can make this exercise more effective.

Recommended for:

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3. Kinesio Taping for Patellar Tendon Support

Why it helps: Kinesio taping can offload tension from the patellar tendon and reduce pain during movement.

Basic Taping Instructions:

• Cut a strip of kinesiology tape approximately 6–8 inches long.
• Anchor the tape just below the shin bump (tibial tuberosity).
• Apply gentle tension and bring it upward toward the kneecap, supporting the patellar tendon.
• Smooth the tape out firmly without wrinkles.

Tip: For best results, taping should be done or taught by a trained physiotherapist.

Recommended for:

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When to Seek Professional Help

If your child is struggling with knee pain or swelling, don’t delay care. Early intervention with a skilled physiotherapist can speed up recovery and prevent the injury from worsening.

At Pain Free Health Clinic, our pediatric physiotherapy specialists across Surrey, Langley, Richmond, and Ladner are here to help. We’ll assess your child’s movement patterns, create a customized rehabilitation plan, and provide support to safely return to sport and daily activities.