This benign condition is a type of so-called  ‘traction apophysitis’.

During skeletal growth, children or young teenagers, often those involved in jumping sports such as basketball, may develop pain and a prominent lump (bone) at the site of insertion of a tendon. Tendons are the structures that attach a muscle to bone.

Over-activity, or heavy and frequent exercise, can result in excessive tension at the site of a tendon insertion, such as below the knee. The recurrent ‘pulling’ of this tendon causes inflammation, and results in pain and excessive bone formation in the affected area. The lump that is felt is hard and can be tender, and often impedes the child’s ability to kneel or continue participation in their sport. The term "jumper's knee" is hence the other name for this condition, although is is important to recognise that the 'traction apophysitis' process may occur at other tendon insertion sites in the body.

Dr Ihsheish can make a thorough clinical and radiological assessment of your signs and aymptoms, and discuss the most appropriate management options accordingly. In the majority of cases the most appropriate management is modification or reduction in the inciting activity, and while this sounds simple it is actually quite a challenge - as these patients are often very keen to continue in their chosen sport or training. In severe cases bracing the affected joint is required to adequately rest it. Surgery is rarely required.