Causes, short- and long-term consequences and treatment options of Osgood Schlatter’s disease

Abstract

Osgood-Schlatter's disease (MOS or OSD) is a common cause of knee joint pain in growing age. It is an inflammation of bone and cartilage on the shin head (tibia) immediately under the growth disc. This disease is sometimes caused by overuse of the leg. In the process, pieces of bone can detach from the shin and die (necrosis). The disease is therefore counted among the aseptic (i.e., non-infection-related) osteonecrosis. Typical symptoms are pain, swelling and tenderness of the knee. This article discusses etiology, the natural course, as well as the long-term consequences and treatment options.