Blood Flow Restriction-Assisted Rehabilitation for Persistent Osgood-Schlatter Disease in an Adolescent Footballer: A Case Report with Isokinetic Evaluation
TL;DR
It is highlighted that both proximal biomechanical dysfunctions and local muscular deficits associated with OSD can be effectively addressed through the integration of BFRT within a structured, progressive rehabilitation program, emphasizing the importance of objective isokinetic assessments to inform clinical decision-making, support return-to-sport readiness, and reduce the risk of recurrence.
Abstract
Abstract Introduction: Osgood-Schlatter disease (OSD), also known as Lannelongue disease, is a type of osteochondritis that affects teenagers. The effectiveness of blood flow restriction training (BFRT) in a structured rehabilitation program for cases that do not respond to conventional treatment has not been studied. By demonstrating the supporting impact of BFRT on progressive loading strategies and functional recovery, this example contributes to the expanding body of information on advanced rehabilitation procedures in OSD. Case Report: A 15-year-old male athlete’s main concerns were restricted participation in football, trouble with high-load activities such as running and jumping, and activity-related anterior knee pain. OSD was determined to be the diagnosis based on radiographic assessment. He visited the physiotherapy outpatient department. A clinical examination showed reduced hip abductor strength, altered hamstring-to-quadriceps (H/Q) ratio, and decreased quadriceps and hamstring strength on isokinetic evaluation. A comprehensive 12-week phase-based rehabilitation protocol involving activity modification, BFRT, aerobic exercise, proprioceptive training, and balance retraining. Following the intervention, the patient’s isokinetic quadriceps, hamstring, and hip muscular strength significantly increased, and the H/Q ratio returned to normal. An improvement in functional performance allowed for a successful and gradual return to sports without recurrence of symptoms. Conclusion: This example highlights that both proximal biomechanical dysfunctions and local muscular deficits associated with OSD can be effectively addressed through the integration of BFRT within a structured, progressive rehabilitation program, emphasizing the importance of objective isokinetic assessments to inform clinical decision-making, support return-to-sport readiness, and reduce the risk of recurrence.