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Iliotibial Band Syndrome (ITBS)

ITBS is one of the most common causes of lateral knee pain in runners!

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Cause

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It is caused by repetitive forward and backward shifting of the IT band across the lateral femoral condyle resulting in inflammation. 

Risk Factors

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Training Errors

Anatomical Factors

Biomechanical Factors

Sudden change in training intensity

Poor shoe support

Lower body strength imbalance

Increase angle of knee flexion at heal strike

Genu Recurvatum or Genu Varum

Tight Iliotibial Band

Weak hip abductors

Signs and Symptoms

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Pain predominantly over lateral femoral condyle

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Swelling may be visible over the lateral knee

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Joint crepitus and/or reduced range of motion

Special Tests

The Ober test is the most commonly used test to assess tightness of the Iliotibial band.

Treatment

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Acute Phase

  • Ice

  • NSAIDs

  • Cortisone injection

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Corrective Treatment Phase

  • Physical Therapy

  • Stretching

  • Foam Rolling

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Long-Term Maintenance

  • Change shoes

  • Progressive training load

  • Stretch/foam roll regularly

Thank You For Visiting!

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To schedule an appointment click me!

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