Knee Pain in the Growth Period in Primary Care: Osgood-Schlatter Disease

Osgood-Schlatter Disease (OSD) is one of the common causes of knee pain in children and adolescents during the growth period and is more prevalent among those involved in sports. OSD typically develops due to repeated knee extension and the rapid growth process, leading to microtrauma and apophyseal avulsions at the secondary ossification center of the tibial tubercle. This case report examines a 12-year-old girl engaged in gymnastics who presented with complaints of left knee pain. Although physical examination revealed no pathological findings in either knee, radiographic evaluations showed irregularities and micro avulsion findings in the tibial tubercle. Initial treatment included activity restriction, NSAID usage, and supportive bandaging. After a two-month follow-up, a significant reduction in pain was observed, though pain recurred during periods of intense exercise. Treatment for OSD is generally conservative, focusing on pain control and exercises that enhance muscle flexibility. While the disease often resolves spontaneously, symptoms may persist into adulthood in some cases. This case highlights the importance of early diagnosis and conservative treatment approaches for OSD in primary healthcare settings. Family physicians should consider OSD in the differential diagnosis of knee pain in children and adolescents, and refer patients for multidisciplinary evaluation when necessary.