hi,

as a physio who worked for many years with junior soccer i strongly feel rest is of no benefit to OS. the condition is present when there is a growth spurt and only after this has stopped will the symptoms resolve.

rest for OS does not reduce the symptoms, just inactivates the child and makes it less likely that they'll grow into adults who exercise as part of their lifestyle.

additionally what is the harm in continuing activity with OS? it is not as if there is any catostrophic damage that can occur to the knee if it is not rested. What i would advise though is the use of ice and ibuprofen gel pre- and post exercise and passive stretches to hip, knee and ankle musculature to encorage the muscles to lengthen to the new size of the bones. additionally normal lower limb strenghtening and proprioception work is of benefit to again allow fast adjustment to the growing frame.

Only when pain is at its absolute worst would i advocate a reduction in activity, but certainly only a reduction, not cesassion.

this has been the approach i have taken for many years with no adverse affects and feel that if rest had been implamented many footballers i have seen would have simply dropped out of their sport.

hope that is helpfull

tomc90