Peer Reviewed
Sports medicine

A practical approach to apophysitis

Corey Cunningham, Ken Crichton
Abstract
Apophysitis typically occurs between the ages of 12 and 15 years, especially during periods of rapid growth. With conservative management, the likelihood of a full recovery is excellent.
Key Points
    Case presentation
    A 13-year-old soccer player presents with a four-week history of aching anterior right knee pain that lasts about 24 hours following training and matches. There is no history of direct trauma, but he has experienced a significant growth spurt during the last six months. Clinical examination reveals swelling and tenderness over the tibial tuberosity, absence of a knee joint effusion, stable knee ligaments and no patellofemoral irritability. X-ray shows a normal tibial tuberosity, with overlying soft tissue swelling.
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