Causes of Osgood-Schlatter Disease
Research has shown that OSD is usually caused by the inflammation [1] of the bone growth plate, as bones have no ability to develop in the center but grow at a point close to the joint. This region is referred to as the growth plate. In a situation where a child is still developing, rather than bone, these growth regions are made of cartilage. And it was discovered that cartilages are not as rigid as human bones. Therefore, when the child experiences an intense level of stress, the growth plate may begin to experience swelling and pain.
Furthermore, the band that comes from the patella connects to the growth plate that can be seen in the front of the tibia. The quadriceps are linked to the patella, and upon pulling against the patella, the patellar tendon experiences tension, which then rubs against the tibia around the growth plate. This is why, when there is continuous movement of the leg, tenderness can occur in that area where there is an attachment.