ILIOTIBIAL BAND SYNDROME 

If you suffer from aching pain and burning feeling on the outside of your knees, don’t hesitate to Schedule an appointment with one of our orthopedic specialists.

What is Iliotibial Band Syndrome?

Iliotibial band syndrome, otherwise known as IT band syndrome, results in pain on the outer side of the knee. It tends to affect athletes who run long distances, in addition to those who take up exercise after a long break. The iliotibial band runs down the outside of your thigh as a long, thick band of tissue. It spans the area between the hip bones and the shins.

When bending or extending the leg, the iliotibial band glides over the lower edge of the femur bone. When used repeatedly for long periods of time, this movement can lead to irritation in the tissues of the thigh, which causes pain. While Iliotibial Band Syndrome often occurs in distance runners, anyone can suffer from this condition.

Indication Of Iliotibial Band Syndrome

The primary symptom of ITBS is pain on the outside of the knee or hip, which may worsen with activity. Other symptoms may include:

1. Sharp or Burning Pain: Pain is typically felt on the outside of the knee or hip joint. It may be described as sharp, burning, or aching in nature.
2. Swelling or Tenderness: In some cases, there may be swelling or tenderness over the affected area.
3. Pain with Activity: Pain typically worsens with activities that involve repetitive bending and straightening of the knee, such as running downhill or cycling.
4. Stiffness or Tightness: Tightness or a feeling of stiffness may be present in the hip or thigh muscles.

Treatment For Iliotibial Band Syndrome

Treatment for ITBS focuses on relieving pain, reducing inflammation, and addressing any underlying factors contributing to the condition. Common treatment options include:

1. Rest and Activity Modification: Avoiding or modifying activities that aggravate symptoms can help reduce stress on the iliotibial band and promote healing.
2. Ice or Heat Therapy: Applying ice packs or using heat therapy can help alleviate pain and reduce inflammation in the affected area.
3. Stretching and Strengthening Exercises: Specific exercises targeting the muscles around the hip and knee, including the iliotibial band, can help improve flexibility, strength, and alignment.
4. Physical Therapy: Working with a physical therapist can provide targeted exercises, manual therapy techniques, and guidance to address muscle imbalances and correct biomechanical issues.
5. Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs): Over-the-counter NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen, may be recommended to reduce pain and inflammation.
6. Corticosteroid Injections: In severe cases, corticosteroid injections may be used to reduce inflammation and provide short-term pain relief.
7. Corrective Measures: If biomechanical issues are contributing to ITBS, orthotics or shoe inserts may be recommended to improve alignment and reduce stress on the iliotibial band.

It’s important to consult with a healthcare professional, such as a sports medicine physician or physical therapist, for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. They can help identify any underlying factors contributing to ITBS and provide guidance on effective management strategies.

If you would like to speak to one of our Orthopedic  Specialists, give us a call at 817-697-4038, or contact us over the web. Tele-medicine appointments are also available.