Injury of the Week - Iliotibial Band Syndrome (IT Band Syndrome)

Commonly thought of as a muscle, the IT Band is actually an extension of the fascial sheath from the gluteus maximus and tensor fascia latae (TFL) muscles. 

It runs down the side of the leg attaching to the outside of the knee providing lateral stability to the hip so that it can't move too far to the outside.    The IT Band is prone to pain and inflammation due to overuse, structural gait issues and/or running on uneven pavement. 

IT Band Syndrome is commonly diagnosed in runners, cyclists, athletes playing court sports (tennis, racquetball) and weightlifters (squats).

Symptoms of IT Band Syndrome:

• Pain when running, especially downhill
• Pain walking/running down steps
• Sensation of "snapping" over the hip or side of knee
• Pain stops when not running or going downhill

 As an active athlete you may be more prone to IT Band Syndrome if you:

• Overpronate (excessively turn feet inward) when walking/running
• Are bowlegged
• Have one leg longer than the other
• Like to run around a track or uneven surfaces
• Overtrain and/or overdevelop the gluteal, hamstring and quad muscle groups

Treating IT Band Syndrome:

• Ice any areas where inflammation or pain occurs
• Take non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication (Advil, etc.)
• Stretch before and after physical activities
• Don't run on uneven surfaces, downhill or down steps
• Try orthotics to correct any current gait imbalances
• Massage - specific range of motion and compression techniques to back, hips, thighs and calves
• Ultrasound

Be aware, if not treated properly IT Band syndrome can become a chronic, recurring injury.