Advice on knee pain
The occurrence of knee injuries is very common in young children who are active in sports. One of the most common causes of knee pain is Osgood-schlatter. Children affected with Osgood schlatter have a tender swollen bump just under their knee cap. This usually occurs on one knee, but both knees can also be affected. However, unlike sprains and other injuries, this condition is not usually very serious and has no long term effects.
Generally, a time tested remedy is the application of an ice pack to the affected knee in order to treat the swelling. The child should not over strain the knee by excessive running or jumping for at least a week. Drinking 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar with 1 tbsp of honey in a glass of water three times a day helps along with meals helps. Also a regular intake of fish liver oil (e.g. cod liver oil) is effective in lubricating the knee joints.
Sometimes though, the pain could be caused by an anterior cruciate ligament tear. If the knee joint seems loose and has a ‘pop' sound, this may be the case. This is an early indication of an ACL tear, which is followed by severe pain and swelling. To cure this as well, proper rest is needed. Avoid running and jumping, until the pain has gone — for 2 to 4 months. Even though Osgood-schlatter or and an ACL tear can be treated with rest and the application of ice, if the child plays through or ignores the pain, the condition may get worse and be more difficult to treat. It is therefore advisable to consult your physician if the pain continues for extended periods.
answered by G M