Iliotibial band syndrome (ITBS) is a common injury to the knee, generally associated with running, cycling, hiking or weight-lifting (especially squats).
Video Iliotibial band syndrome
Signs and symptoms
ITBS symptoms range from a stinging sensation just above the knee joint, to swelling or thickening of the tissue in the area where the band moves over the femur. The stinging sensation just above the knee joint is felt on the outside of the knee or along the entire length of the iliotibial band. Pain may not occur immediately during activity, but may intensify over time. Pain is most commonly felt when the foot strikes the ground, and pain might persist after activity. Pain may also be present above and below the knee, where the ITB attaches to the tibia. It will also hurt if you twist your knee to turn a corner.
Maps Iliotibial band syndrome
Causes
ITBS can result from one or more of the following: training habits, anatomical abnormalities, or muscular imbalances:
Anatomical mechanism
Iliotibial band syndrome is one of the leading causes of lateral knee pain in runners. The iliotibial band is a thick band of fascia on the lateral aspect of the knee, extending from the outside of the pelvis, over the hip and knee, and inserting just below the knee. The band is crucial to stabilizing the knee during running, as it moves from behind the femur to the front of the femur during activity. The continual rubbing of the band over the lateral femoral epicondyle, combined with the repeated flexion and extension of the knee during running may cause the area to become inflamed.
Diagnosis
Treatment
While ITBS pain can be acute, the iliotibial band can be rested, iced, compressed and elevated (RICE) to reduce pain and inflammation, followed by stretching. Massage therapy, and many of its modalities, can offer relief if symptoms arise.
See also
References
- Van der Worp et al., Iliotibial Band Syndrome in Runners. A Systematic Review: Sports Med 2012;42(11):969-992
External links
- IT Band Syndrome (Runnersworld.com)
Source of the article : Wikipedia