Childhood Knee Pain – What You Can Do About It

One of the most common causes of knee pain in active teens is the condition known as Osgood-Schlatter. The most common complaint is pain located at the front of the knee which hurts even more with running, jumping, and climbing or descending stairs.

There is usually no specific injury or event that is identified as the initiating cause, and one or both knees may be affected.
Although seen more in boys, Osgood Schlatter cases in young girls is on the rise as their participation in sports increases. In general, this condition is most frequently seen in boys between the ages of 10 and 15 years, while girls between the ages of 8 and 13 years are more often affected. The good news is that although the condition is common, it will usually respond rapidly to appropriate conservative care provided by a chiropractor.

Osgood Schlatter can be chronic and tends to recur over a period of months to several years, but usually clears by the age of 18. In some cases, the symptoms may persist into adulthood, or will recur when the adult begins a new recreational or athletic endeavor.

A major contributing factor to knee pain issue is the growth element. During a growth spurt, significant muscle-tendon imbalance usually develops when the bones lengthen faster than the muscles and connective tissues. This imbalance often results in tight and inflexible muscle groups. This inflexibility increases the traction forces on this site, and any repetitive athletic activity adds to stressed areas.

Conservative Care for Children – Early Treatment is Key

• Restricted activity: Jumping, sprinting, kicking, deep squats, and other activities that stress the tibial tendon are eliminated, while easy jogging is still encouraged. Immobilization is not recommended.
• Ice: Frequent (hourly) ice massage and/or cold packs help reduce inflammation.
• Vitamin C with bioflavonoids: A natural anti-inflammatory that can speed tendon healing. Another good supplement to try is Boswellia Complex.
• Stretching. Gentle, repeated, progressive stretches to improve the length and flexibility of the quadriceps, in particular; but also the hamstring and gastrocnemius muscles.
• Strengthening. Hamstring curls and straight-leg raises with resistance are appropriate, while squat and jump exercises should be eliminated.
• Orthotic support. Look for custom designed stabilizing orthotics that help to reduce shock and excessive tibial motion may allow a quicker return to sports, especially for patients with excessive pronation or supination.