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The most common cause of knee pain in young athletes is patellofemoral pain syndrome, which is a broad term for anterior knee pain surrounding the patella (the kneecap). The pain is typically due to overuse, so parent’s should be aware of the signs and symptoms if their children are athletes.
When the knee pain is isolated to the area just under the kneecap, it’s likely Osgood Schlatters Disease. When the patella forms in infancy, it attaches to the tibia through the patellar tendon. During the growth spurts of puberty, childrens’ muscle growth often fails to keep up with the growth of the bones. The patellar tendon begins to pull away from the knee, causing pain.
Pain surrounding the kneecap
Swelling on the bottom portion of the knee near the growth plate
Pain right below the knee cap during running or exercise
Knee pain can occur for many different reasons. Overuse, inactivity, or simply sitting on the knees for too long can cause discomfort. Whatever the culprit, the best thing you can do for your young athlete is to stay informed of the symptoms, understand the causes and know how to treat or make them more comfortable.
Patellofemoral syndrome
Overuse through heavy physical activity
Inactivity or lack of use
Strains, sprains or other injuries
Sitting or kneeling in a constrained position
Sitting on the knees for long periods of time
You may have heard the phrase “growing pains.” It’s the phrase that people use to describe the pain around the joints that occurs during puberty. The knees are commonly effected by these growing pains, and parents can best help their children by staying informed on the issues and how to treat them.
Osgood Schlatters disease
Proper supports, like kinesio taping or knee braces, can help relieve pain and play a key role in a young patient’s recovery.
Stabilizing the knee after injury will encourage healing and reduce your athlete’s recovery time.
Proper rehabilitation and maintenance appointments at Optimize Chiropractic can enhance the performance of young athletes.