Osgood-Schlatters Disease
Osgood-Schlatter’s Disease Support in Waterford
Knee Pain in Active Kids & Teens? Step Right Can Help
Osgood-Schlatter’s disease is a common cause of knee pain in active children and teenagers, especially those involved in sports like football, GAA, rugby, athletics, or basketball.
It often causes pain at the front of the knee, just below the kneecap, and can become worse with running, jumping, squatting, or kneeling.
At Step Right Waterford, we help identify contributing factors such as foot posture, gait, and lower limb loading — and recommend practical support to reduce strain and improve comfort.
👉 Book an appointment today at Step Right Waterford.
What is Osgood-Schlatter’s Disease?
Osgood-Schlatter’s disease is irritation at the point where the patellar tendon attaches to the shin bone (tibia), just below the knee.
It commonly occurs during growth spurts when bones grow quickly and the muscles/tendons can become tight, placing extra pull on the area.
It is very common in sporty teens and usually improves with the right approach.
Common Symptoms of Osgood-Schlatter’s
Your child may notice:
- Pain just below the kneecap
- Pain during or after sport
- Soreness when kneeling
- Swelling or a small bump below the knee
- Tightness through the thighs or calves
- Pain that improves with rest but returns with activity
It may affect one knee or both.
What Causes Osgood-Schlatter’s Disease?
Osgood-Schlatter’s is usually caused by a combination of growth and repeated strain.
Common contributors include:
- Growth spurts
- Running and jumping sports
- Tight quads and hamstrings
- High activity levels with limited recovery
- Poor movement patterns and loading
- Foot posture issues affecting alignment
- Unsupportive or worn-out footwear
Can Feet and Gait Affect Knee Pain in Teens?
Yes — your child’s foot posture and gait can influence alignment through the ankle, knee, and hip. If the foot rolls inward too much (flat feet/overpronation), it can increase strain through the knee during activity.
This is why assessing the foundation (feet + walking pattern) can be useful when knee pain keeps returning.
How Step Right Waterford Helps
Foot & Gait Assessment (Practical & Sport-Focused)
At Step Right Waterford, we assess:
- Foot posture and arch type
- Pressure points and loading patterns
- Gait (how your child walks and moves)
- Footwear support and cushioning
- Lower limb alignment factors that may add strain
Support Options to Reduce Knee Strain
Depending on your child’s needs, we may recommend:
- Footwear advice for better stability and comfort
- Support recommendations to improve alignment
- Practical guidance to manage flare-ups and reduce overload
Our goal is to reduce discomfort and help your child stay active more comfortably.
When Should You Get It Checked?
We recommend booking in if:
- Knee pain is affecting sport or PE
- Pain keeps coming back after rest
- Your child is limping or avoiding activity
- Pain has lasted more than 2 weeks
- You want to prevent it becoming long-term
Osgood-Schlatter’s Support in Waterford
Step Right Waterford helps children and teens manage knee pain with expert assessment and practical support.
👉 Book an appointment today at Step Right Waterford.
FAQ: Osgood-Schlatter’s Disease
Is Osgood-Schlatter’s serious?
It can be painful, but it’s common in growing teens and usually improves with the right management.
Can my child still play sport?
Often yes, but activity may need to be adjusted during flare-ups. We’ll guide you based on symptoms.
Does footwear matter?
Yes — worn-out or unsupportive footwear can increase stress through the knees, especially during sport.
