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Osgood-Schlatter disease

Also called: Osgood-Schlatter disease, knee bump in kids

A painful bump just below the kneecap in active, growing kids and teens. It improves with rest and goes away when growth ends.

AgeMostly 10 to 15
Worse withRunning, jumping, kneeling
EndsWhen growth stops

Overview

The thigh muscle tendon pulls on the growth area of the shin bone.

The bump may stay but stops hurting.

Symptoms

Common signs:

  • Pain and a bump below the kneecap
  • Painful bump below the kneecap
  • Knee pain

Less common

  • Swelling

Look up a symptom: Knee pain · Painful bump below the kneecap

When to get medical care

Call 911This isn't an emergency by itself. Call 911 for trouble breathing, chest pain, or fainting.
Get care todaySudden severe pain, can't straighten the knee, or fever.
See a doctor soonPain affecting sports or walking.

Causes

Growth spurts and sports.

Does it spread or run in families?

  • It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.

Who is more likely to get it

  • Active kids
  • Boys

Diagnosis

A clinician examines the knee.

Questions you may be asked

  • Sports

The exam

Pressing the bump below the kneecap.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

  • X-ray: Sometimes.

Treatment

Ease activity while it heals.

Self-care

  • Rest from activities that hurt
  • Ice for 15 to 20 minutes a few times a day
  • Raise the area when you can
  • Stretch thigh and hamstring muscles
  • Use knee pads for kneeling

Medicines

Medicines that may help:

MedicineHelps withGood to know
Pain and fever relievers
PainNo ibuprofen under 6 months; dose by weight.

OwieClear doesn't give doses: follow the label or your healthcare professional. Medicine names here are examples, not a full list.

Prevention

To ease it:

  • Stretching
  • Gradual training

Which doctor treats this

  • Start with your child's pediatrician.
  • They may send you to a pediatric specialist: an orthopedist (bone and joint doctor).

Back to school, work, or sports

  • Most children can go to daycare or school as usual.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

  • If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
  • Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
  • Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
  • Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

For caregivers

  • Learn the warning signs and when to call the doctor or 911.
  • Keep a list of your child's medicines, doses, and doctors on your phone.
  • Tell teachers, coaches, and sitters what to watch for and what to do.
  • Take breaks and ask for help. Caregivers need care too.

Outlook

Goes away with time.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

Questions to ask

  • When can my child return to sports?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Osgood-Schlatter disease

Sources

Last updated 2026-11-12.