Does your child suffer from knee pain?

We often think of knee pain as something only adults suffer from – especially adults over forty. But knee pain also hits teens and preteens who are active in sports.

Pain in the front of the knee and around the kneecap is one of the most common complaints. Knee pain in these age groups can be caused by overuse, an imbalance in muscle strength and flexibility or from Osgood-Schlatter syndrome, a growth-related disease.

Pain from Osgood-Schlatter syndrome is very specific. It’s an irritation of the growth area that causes pain just below the kneecap where a bony raised area usually develops. The bones grow fast, but the muscles don’t always keep up. Flatfooted or high arched children are more likely to be affected, because these foot types cause more abnormal muscle pull, which in turn irritates this area of the knee.

Take action! Don’t wait for your child to “grow out of it.” There is no need for your child to be in pain.