Almost all of us can relate to the awkward stage of puberty and the almost random growth spurts we encountered growing up. For those teens that had a very physically active life, a condition known as Sinding-Larsen-Johansson Syndrome may have developed.
Sinding-Larsen-Johansson Syndrome is fairly common in active teens, and with proper treatment can be managed effectively. However, it is uncomfortable and for some teens, it can be quite scary because this pain can be severe enough to keep a teen from running or even walking around and often is the first time they have experienced such a thing.
Comparison Table for Sinding-Larsen-Jahansson Syndrome Braces
Name | Picture | Price | Best Feature | Our rating | Best Price |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Bracoo Adjustable Compression Knee Brrace | $ | We love the support ring around the knee cap | 9.6/10 | See Current Price | |
Knee Brace by EXOUS | $$ | We love the 4 adjustable straps to find the right size | 9.6/10 | See Current Price | |
Body Prox Knee Brace | $ | Lightweight design with gel knee cap support | 9.6/10 | See Current Price | |
CompressionGear Adjustable Knee Brace | $ | Less bulky than the other options and is easy to adjust | 9.3/10 | See Current Price | |
Sleeve Stars Knee Brace | $ | We love the soft fabric of the knee brace | 9.5/10 | See Current Price |
What is Sinding-Larsen-Johansson Syndrome?
This syndrome is a painful condition affecting the kneecap, medically known as the patella, which occurs when the body undergoes a rapid growth spurt.
The knee is responsible for movement such as walking, running, and jumping. It plays a large role in our ability to move around in the world. As the bones in the legs grow it will cause the muscles to stretch and undergo strain.
The quadriceps, the large muscle group in the upper leg, will pull on the patella itself which will, in turn, pull on the patella tendon and the growth plate it is attached to. The strain exerted by the patella tendon on the growth plate is generally the source of the pain experienced in Sinding-Larsen-Johansson Syndrome. This strain can cause painful irritation and inflammation around the kneecap which can severely affect the teens’ ability to run or jump or even walk.
Symptoms of Sinding-Larsen-Johansson Syndrome
The symptoms of Sinding-Larsen-Johansson Syndrome to be aware of if your teen begins to complain of pain and difficulty walking are:
- Pain and tenderness accompanied by swelling at the bottom of the kneecap.
- Pain in the kneecap that is reduced by rest
- Pain that is increased with movement or exercise of the legs.
- Pain that is made worse with squatting, jumping, running
What Causes Sinding-Larsen-Johansson Syndrome
Sinding-Larsen-Johansson Syndrome is simply caused by strain on the bony growth plate that the patella tendon is attached to. The strain is exacerbated during growth spurts to a point where the pain is experienced during and after exercise. The condition can become severe enough that the pain can be felt even at rest.
Teens who are most at risk for this syndrome are often involved in athletics or physically active programs including the marching band. All teens have a slight risk to develop this syndrome, however, it is most common to those involved in the activities previously mentioned.
More Information About Sinding-Larsen Syndrome
Do You Need Surgery for Sinding-Larsen-Johansson Syndrome
Sinding-Larsen-Johansson Syndrome is a passing syndrome. Meaning that although there may be pain and difficulty in mobility, the symptoms are easily managed. As the body continues to grow the muscles and tendons themselves will develop and adapt. Over time the symptoms will lessen and eventually disappear.
While it may be a painful inconvenience for those teens it is a temporary problem that does not need immediate attention or surgery as symptoms resolve themselves over the course of a few months to a little over a year. During this time proper rest and application of knee braces will help mediate the symptoms enough for the teen to stay active.
FAQ about Sinding-Larsen Syndrome
How Long Does Sinding-Larsen Last?
Typically, Sinding-Larsen Syndrome will heal within 6-8 weeks with conservative treatment, physical therapy, and activity modification. Surgery is rarely needed and most kids are able to self manage with a home exercise routing.
Does Sinding-Larsen Syndrome Hurt?
Sinding-Larsen syndrome can be painful, especially after a large bout of exercise. The bottom of the knee cap is being pulled by the much stronger tendon and can cause high levels of pain. Bracing and using ice can help reduce pain levels.
What Age is Most Common for Sinding-Larsen Disease?
This is most common in adolescence and kids who are experiencing a large growth spurt. If it is severe enough some of the symptoms can last beyond the teenage years and cause knee pain into the late teens.
Does a Brace Help With Sinding-Larsen Disease?
It can help with reducing pain and decreasing the amount of stress placed on the bottom of the knee cap. A knee brace with reduce the tension of the patella tendon and is a great way to reduce symptoms with activity.
The Best Knee Brace for Sinding-Larsen-Johansson Syndrome
Bracoo Knee Brace
Summary: The Bracoo knee brace is a thick neoprene brace. This brace is fully flexible and therefore allowing for a full range of movement. This brace is most useful for those standing for long hours at a time.
Pros: The thick neoprene is a very stable material that provides the extra support needed for long periods of time. The material itself is breathable and water-resistant and fully flexible.
Cons: Some people may be allergic to neoprene, causing a rash or other skin related problems.
EXOUS Knee Brace
Summary: The EXOUS knee brace is a unique brace in the sense that it has a four-way strapping system, allowing the knee to feel support from 4 different directions.
Pros: The four-way strapping system is very stable and allows the wearer more use for a longer period of time with minimal adjustment. The strapping system is also quite stable, reducing slip and agitation during movement or exercise
Cons: This brace also has a limited sizing, so, unfortunately, it may not fit all customers who may require a knee brace.
Body Prox Knee Brace
Summary: The Body Prox Knee Brace is a universal fit brace, meaning one size will fit all. It is also made of neoprene and most fit for those with an athletic lifestyle. We love this brace because you can adjust the tightness with the straps right over the patella tendon to decrease the pressure and pain.
Pros: In addition to being made of neoprene this brace incorporates springs on each side of the knee. These springs help alleviate the workload during heavy exercise.
Cons: Due to its light construction this brace may be more susceptible to wear and tear than heavier grade neoprene braces.
Compression Gear Stabilizing Knee Brace
Summary: The Compression Gear Stabilizing Knee Brace is similar in design to the Bracco and Body Prox brace. The design is a happy medium between heavy-duty construction with the incorporation of spring stabilizers. The bottom strap can be tightened to take pressure off the knee cap and patella tendon plus this brace is sooooo easy to take on and off.
Pros: This company offers a product guarantee, so if a customer is not satisfied it can be returned for full compensation.
Cons: This brace is a little bulky so wearing one underclothes may be a bit uncomfortable.
SLEEVE STARS Knee Brace
Summary: The Sleeve Stars brace is specifically designed for use in athletics and for kids that are active. It is made of quality heavy-duty neoprene and has more resistant springs to help with managing knee flexion workload.
Pros: This brace is offered in different lengths, providing more support depending on the activities that will be used with it.
Cons: Unfortunately this brace is not a one size fits all brace.
Conclusion:
All of the braces above will help alleviate pain and stress from Sinding-Larsen-Syndrome. So while Sinding-Larsen-Johansson Syndrome is common and quite painful, it is an issue that can be easily relieved by using the appropriate brace and self-treatment. So remember that if these symptoms appear to take adequate breaks, to rest, and to stay properly hydrated. If pain persists or if physical demands require it, a brace may be the best affordable solution.
Works Cited:
https://physioworks.com.au/injuries-conditions-1/sinding-larsen-johansson-disease
Sinding-Larsen-Johansson syndrome: A case report – https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1971349512000264
Overload syndromes of the knee in adolescents: Sonographic findings – https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1971349508000659
Sinding-Larsen-Johansson syndrome – https://www.ajol.info/index.php/sajchh/article/view/80945
Injuries and Conditions of the Extensor Mechanism of the Pediatric Knee – https://pubs.rsna.org/doi/full/10.1148/rg.293085163
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Disclaimer: The information provided in this post is for educational purposes only. This is not a substitute for a medical appointment. Please refer to your physician before starting any exercise program.