International Sports Sciences Association (ISSA) Trainer Practice Exam

Children are particularly vulnerable to which condition?

1. Diabetes

2. Osgood Schlatter disease

3. Asthma

4. Hypertension

The correct answer is: Osgood Schlatter disease

The condition that children are particularly vulnerable to is Osgood Schlatter disease. This condition is characterized by pain and swelling just below the knee and is particularly common among active children and adolescents who are involved in running, jumping, and other sports. The growth plates in children are still developing, which makes them more susceptible to this type of injury resulting from overuse or stress on the knee joint. As children grow and experience rapid growth spurts, the knee area can become inflamed, leading to discomfort and pain. Osgood Schlatter disease tends to resolve once the child’s growth plates close, but during its course, it can affect a child’s ability to participate in sports or physical activities comfortably. Understanding this vulnerability helps trainers and parents take preventive measures and manage symptoms in young athletes effectively. The other conditions listed—diabetes, asthma, and hypertension—while they can occur in children, are not predominantly tied to the growing and physically active demographic in the same way that Osgood Schlatter disease is. Therefore, recognizing the specific risks associated with bone and joint development in children is critical for identifying Osgood Schlatter disease as the most relevant concern.