Originally described simultaneously by Osgood and Schlatter in 1903, Osgood-Schlatter disease is one of the most common causes of knee pain in young athletes. Also known as bone infarction, ischemic necrosis, osteochondrosis, it causes swelling, pain and tenderness just below the knee, over the shinbone. One Finnish study found that this condition affected 13% of all athletes.

Symptoms may occur in one or both legs and can range from mild knee pain to constant pain that makes during a sports activity. The disorder is typified by:

• Leg pain or knee pain, 2 to 3 inches below the kneecap, which gets worse with activity, especially running, jumping, or climbing, or when pressure is applied to the area.
• Tenderness below the knee.
• Swelling of the bump on the front of the leg just below the kneecap.

Small injuries that may cause this disorder usually get no attention. Some exercises such as straight-leg raises, leg curls and quadriceps contractions may be done at home, with or without the help of a physical therapist to strengthen the quadriceps. It is also imperative to avoid sports that involve heavy quadriceps loading. This should help prevent further problems. A little rest and time can help alleviate this disorder. However, if the condition is ignored or activities are continued despite pain, the disease may get worse and cause further inconvenience.

OSD is an inflammation below the knee on the front (anterior) surface of the lower leg bone (tibia). Preteens and young teens are particularly susceptible to stresses in this area, because bone growth is faster than soft tissue growth, resulting in muscle tendon tightness across the joint and loss of flexibility. The small area of the lower leg just below the knee happens to be a place where the bone grows and attaches to the kneecap tendons. Overuse and inappropriate training may cause repeated microscopic injury to this area thereby resulting in pain and swelling. In some cases, the injury may be severe enough to cause this attachment to actually tear away fragments of bone from the upper leg called the tibial tubercle. However, it must be kept in mind that this does not involve the knee joint itself but rather the area below the knee and above the shinbone. OSD is more common after games that involve a lot of jumping and cutting, such as basketball, volleyball, soccer, figure skating, and gymnastics.

Diagnostic methods would include personal observation of symptoms along with medical history and physical exam by a doctor. Sometimes, an X-ray of the knee may be required

Eat plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables. Drink juices and concentrate on good and healthy diet as this greatly helps the body to recover. Take calcium supplements as suggested by your physician.

If pain develops, ice should be applied to the involved areas. Using ice can help prevent swelling and pain. The knee should be wrapped with an elastic bandage.

Adopt an exercise routine suggested by a proper doctor as this helps the body to stay fit and the mind to relax.

Celadrin is a nutritional supplement that shows its favorable effects on bone and joint health. ¹ Joint Response contains MSM and glucosamine sulfate. Glucosamine sulfate provides its beneficial effects during problems associated with bone and joint. ^1,2,3,4,5 Methyl sulfonyl methane or MSM shows its beneficial effects on bone health. ^1,2,4Selenium is a mineral require by body during problems associated with bones and joint. ^1,2,6 Vitamin D also exhibits its wholesome effects on bone health. ^2,5,7,8,9

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, cure, mitigate, treat, or prevent any disease.