💥 IT Band Syndrome 💥

(Iliotibial band syndrome)

IT Band Syndrome (Iliotibial band syndrome) is one of the most common causes of lateral knee pain in runners. ¹

The iliotibial band is a tight band of fascia that is formed by the fascia of the gluteus maximus, gluteus medius and tensor fasciae latae muscles. It originates from the pelvis and extends down to attach to the femur and tibia.

IT Band Syndrome has been described as an overuse injury to the knee and is characterised by a sharp burning pain over the lateral aspect (outside) of the knee. Diagnosis is usually made on presenting symptoms and a thorough clinical examination. MRI is not usually indicated, however it may be used to exclude pathology of other structures of and around the knee.¹

It is prevalent in sports where participants are subjected to repetitive knee flexion and extension. Runners are most prone to an injury like IT Band Syndrome during the stance phase of running due to the increased load on the lower limb muscles and joints. The pain may radiate up or down and symptoms are often reported to occur at a similar time and distance in a run.¹

Biomechanical factors, particularly of the hip and knee, are believed to be a possible cause of IT Band Syndrome in runners. It is believed that the strain and tension on the IT Band is greater when the hip is in an adducted position and the knee is internally rotated. Extrinsic factors such as downhill running, running at a slower pace, sudden increase in mileage and frequency, footwear and step width are also associated with IT Band strain.¹

Treatment modalities during the acute phase of IT Band Syndrome are aimed at reducing inflammation at the site where the IT Band moves over the outside of the knee. These modalities include rest, ice, activity modification and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Stretching and soft tissue techniques can then be used on the IT Band and surrounding muscles to release myofascial restrictions. 

Strengthening  the abductor muscles has also been shown to be of benefit, therefore it is recommended during the recovery and strengthening phase.¹

Shown here are some rehabilitation exercises and a myofascial technique (using a foam roller on the gluteal complex) that we find works well with helping ITBS.  However, we recommend you consult with your osteopath to find out the “do’s and don’ts” depending on the severity of your injury as there is no ‘one size fits all’ with treatment plans. 

If you’re suffering from knee pain or iliotibial band syndrome (IT Band Syndrome), we may be able to help. Speak to one of our Osteopaths at Valued Health Osteopathy in Bentleigh East about your treatment and rehabilitation options.

References

1️⃣ Aderem J, Louw Q. Biomechanical risk factors associated with iliotibial band syndrome (IT Band Syndrome) in runners: a systematic review. BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders. 2015;16(1).

All our Osteopaths at Valued Health Osteopathy are university trained allied health professionals who have completed a minimum of five years of university training in anatomy, physiology, pathology, general medical diagnosis and osteopathic techniques. It is also a requirement that all our Osteopaths at Valued Health Osteopathy are registered with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) and Osteopathy Australia (OA).

You do not need a referral to see one of our friendly Osteopaths at Valued Health Osteopathy. We have a very good relationship with many surrounding doctors, other health practitioners and personal trainers in the local community of Bentleigh East , Bentleigh, Ormond, McKinnon, Oakleigh, Carnegie, Caulfield, Moorabbin, Murrumbeena, Brighton, Clayton and Clarinda .

Valued Health Osteopathy offers Osteopathy, Clinical Pilates, Massage Therapy, Exercise Rehabilitation and Strength & Conditioning. Valued Health Osteopathy is open 6 days a week with early morning and evening appointments. Move better with Osteopathy!

Valued Health Osteopathy is located at 3/658 Centre Road, Bentleigh East, Melbourne, Victoria, 3165.

Valued Health Osteopathy

Osteopath in Bentleigh East, near Bentleigh, Ormond, McKinnon, Moorabbin, Murrumbeena, Oakleigh, Carnegie, Caulfield, Clayton, Brighton and Cheltenham. 

Osteopathy Australia

Iliotibial Band Syndrome (IT Band Syndrome)