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Knee

Sinding-Larsen-Johansson Syndrome

Sinding-larsen-johansson syndrome introduction Sinding-Larsen-Johansson syndrome (SLJS) is a somewhat rare and overlooked issue when diagnosing patellofemoral pain in adolescents.

A
Andrew Schleihauf
Sports Medicine Physician · October 10, 2021 · 3 min read

Overview

Sinding-larsen-johansson syndrome introduction Sinding-Larsen-Johansson syndrome (SLJS) is a somewhat rare and overlooked issue when diagnosing patellofemoral pain in adolescents. The disorder was described in 1921 by Sinding-Larsen and 1922 by Johansson and is now commonly known as Sinding-Larsen-Johansson disease or syndrome. It is caused by traction on the patellar ligament, causing inflammation at the insertion of the proximal ligament into the inferior pole of the patella.

Symptoms

Case Vignette An 11 year old female soccer player presents with bilateral knee pain that occurs mostly when running and kicking the ball over the past 2 months. She admits to being slightly less active before the season started and her symptoms seemed to coincide with the season starting. She has pain that seems worse after her practices and games.

Causes and Risk Factors

There was no acute event before the symptoms began. Lateral x-ray shows an osseous fragment noted at the inferior patellar pole on both knees. There is tenderness to palpation over both knees over this area.

Treatment Options

What is the most likely diagnosis? A) Osgood-Schlatter’s disease B) Iselin’s disease C) Sever’s disease D) Sinding-Larsen-Johansson disease The extensor mechanism of the knee comprises the quadriceps tendon and muscles, patella, patellar ligament and the supporting retinaculum. Injuries can occur from direct trauma, overuse, degenerative disease.

Recovery

The most common adolescent injury to this area is Osgood-Schlatter’s disease (Fig. 1), which affects the distal pole of the patellar tendon and tibial tubercle. At the inferior pole of the patella, Sinding-Larsen-Johansson syndrome and patellar sleeve avulsion fractures most commonly occur in adolescents with patellar tendinopathy occurring in both adults and adolescents.

When to See a Doctor

If you are experiencing symptoms that may be related to sinding-larsen-johansson syndrome, it is important to see a sports medicine physician. Early evaluation and treatment typically lead to better outcomes. Do not ignore pain or symptoms that are limiting your activity.

*This article is for educational purposes only and does not substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider.*

KneeYouth Athletes
A
Andrew Schleihauf
Sports Medicine Physician
Sports Medicine Review contributor

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