Osgood-Schlatter is a musculoskeletal condition seen mostly in children and adolescents, although there have been some cases where adults have also been diagnosed with this condition, but such cases are extremely rare. Osgood-Schlatter is characterized by inflammation around the knee region where the patellar tendon attaches to tibia.1
This inflammation causes pain and prevents children from carrying out their recreational activities like playing, hopping, jumping, and running. Knee braces are of great help for Osgood-Schlatter; and in this article, we will be discussing about the different knee braces for Osgood-Schlatter.
When are the Symptoms of Osgood-Schlatter Experienced?
The symptoms of Osgood-Schlatter flare up predominantly during growth spurts as a result of the changes that occur in the tendons, bones, and muscles simultaneously. As such, any increase in activity like playing, jumping, or running puts increased pressure on the kneecap and causes more pain and prevents the children from partaking in any athletic activity or other games as a result of the pain and swelling due to Osgood-Schlatter.
Who Gets Affected With Osgood-Schlatter?
Usually children who are active and involved in sporting activities like football, rugby, and track and field events mostly get affected with Osgood-Schlatter, although less active children may also at times have this problem.
How is Osgood-Schlatter Treated?
Osgood-Schlatter is mostly treated with rest and taking over-the-counter pain medications along with aggressive stretching and strengthening exercises till the time the symptoms subside so that the child can go back to regular activities.2
Are Knee Braces Of Any Help For Osgood Schlatter?
Among the treatment strategies used for treating Osgood-Schlatter, the role of knee braces has been questioned by many parents of children with this condition. So, the answer to this question is YES, knee braces are of great help in treating the symptoms of Osgood-Schlatter. There are different types of knee braces available in the market, which can be used for treating the symptoms of Osgood-Schlatter. It may be a bit confusing when it comes to selecting the right brace for the child but a consultation with the trainer or a physician may be of great value when choosing a knee brace for the child with Osgood-Schlatter.
Some of the types of knee braces that are extremely beneficial in the treatment of Osgood-Schlatter are:
Knee Sleeves for Osgood-Schlatter: This is a type of knee brace that comes in a variety of styles and materials. The most preferred material for a knee sleeve is neoprene sleeve, which has high elasticity and can be stretched more. It also provides good compression for the knees and allows it to heal after a flare up of Osgood-Schlatter. A wraparound sleeve is perhaps the best for a child whenever he or she goes out to play to protect the knee from any inflammation as a result of Osgood-Schlatter. Knee Sleeves are also available in different length, which is also a big plus when it comes to selecting a knee brace for treating Osgood-Schlatter.
Knee Strap for Osgood-Schlatter: This is a type of a knee brace that is quite beneficial for Osgood-Schlatter.3 The elastic band of the strap is placed just between the kneecap and the tibial tubercle, which creates pressure over the tendon thus reducing stress on the tibia as a result of the inflammation caused by Osgood-Schlatter. This pressure also helps in eliminating pain and inflammation caused due to Osgood-Schlatter. A knee strap is available in different varieties and a physical trainer or a physician can be the best judge to help select the best knee strap for the child to provide comfort as well as help with the symptoms of Osgood-Schlatter.
Conclusion
In conclusion, knee braces are very beneficial when it comes to treatment of Osgood-Schlatter. There are various forms of knee braces available in the market, which are made of different materials with varying degrees of length and elasticity. A consultation with a physician or talking to the physical trainer of the child is the best way to choose a knee brace that is comfortable to the child and also protects the knee during flare up of symptoms of Osgood-Schlatter.
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