Growing Pains?
While growing pains can be challenging for both kids and parents, they are common and can occur in up to 49% of children.
Two common leg conditions associated with growth are Osgood-Schlatter’s disease and Sever’s disease, both of which involve irritation of bony growth plates. Growth plates are found at the ends of bones and are made of cartilage, which is softer than bone and can become sore and inflamed from excessive load.
Let’s explore these two conditions and what you can do about them!
Osgood-Schlatter’s Disease
Symptoms:
Characterized by knee pain just below the kneecap on the tibial bone, where the kneecap and tendon attach. Sometimes a bony lump can develop. Pain is often worse during sporting activities or toward the end of an active day.
Causes:
Muscle imbalances involving the muscles that attach to the patella can cause tension on the patellar tendon, which inserts onto the tibia near the growth plate. Overloading the tendon through activities such as running and kicking during growth periods can also contribute.
Tips:
This condition typically has an excellent prognosis and usually resolves with time and rest. Activity modification is recommended—reduce participation in sports that involve running, jumping, or deep knee bending, within pain tolerance. Ice packs and sometimes anti-inflammatory medications can help manage symptoms. Knee braces, taping, and a regular stretching routine may also be beneficial. Your physiotherapist can complete a full assessment to identify the causes and recommend the best treatment options.
Sever’s Disease
Symptoms:
Heel pain in children! Like Osgood-Schlatter’s disease, Sever’s disease is caused by repetitive microtrauma to the growth plate—in this case, in the heel bone—due to tension from the Achilles tendon and plantar aponeurosis. Pain often worsens during or after sports.
Causes:
Several factors may contribute, including foot mechanics, inappropriate footwear, calf muscle tightness or weakness, and the child’s activity level.
Tips:
This condition often settles with rest to allow the growth plate to recover. Activity modification is advised—reduce sports that involve running or jumping, within the child’s pain tolerance. Ice packs can help relieve pain, and stretching exercises may assist in recovery. A physiotherapist can guide you through a stretching program. Massage and manual therapy for tight muscles may also help reduce the strain on the growth plate. Orthotics or cushioned footwear may provide additional support. Your physio can assess the situation and offer tailored treatment options.