This is caused by muscle tension pulling at the periostium of the tibia (sheath surrounding the bone) which causes inflammation and tenderness over the front and inside of the tibia (shin bone). This is typically an overuse injury.
The medial meniscus is a crescent shaped structure which sits between the tibia (shin bone) and femur (thigh bone). Its role is as a shock absorber and also to make the bones more congruent (fit together). As more weight goes through the inside of the knee, the medial meniscus is more bound down and has attachments to the medial collateral ligament. It is commonly injured through impact to the knee, from a twisting motion or through wear and tear as one ages.
Symptoms:
Instability and reduced weight bearing on that side
Pain and swelling within 48 hours
Locking of the knee
Positive orthopaedic test – McMurrays and Apleys (done by your osteopath)
These often come on from 7-12 years of age and affect 20-45% of children. It is often caused through muscle pain rather than growth of bones and is made worse after a particularly athletic day.
Symptoms:
Pain in the afternoon and night but not every day
Pain in the thighs or calves but the joints appear normal
Growing pains are diagnosed by ruling other more serious conditions out. So if unsure please see your GP or visit us for a full medical case history