Surgery is considered a last resort for particularly advanced cases and is not necessary for most patients.Īwareness of iliotibial band syndrome enables you to pursue treatment as soon as symptoms emerge.
Physical therapy, including targeted stretches, strength training exercises, and flexibility exercises Listed below are some of the treatment options that can effectively treat iliotibial band syndrome: Once iliotibial band syndrome has been identified and diagnosed, how can it be treated? There are numerous Sports Medicine treatments for this conditions the recommended treatment for your particular case will depend upon the degree of irritation and inflammation that your ligament is experiencing. Iliotibial Band Syndrome Treatment in Glen Mills Likewise, pain may intensify not only when running but also when walking.
#WHERE IS IT BAND LOCATED FULL#
Stinging or pins-and-needles sensations along the iliotibial bandĪs this condition progresses, pain may begin to extend beyond the knee to the full length of the iliotibial band. Pain when the knee is bent at a 45-degree angle Pain on the lateral side of the knee pain will typically worsen during running activity Other symptoms that may indicate the presence of this condition include: This swelling and inflammation is typically located around the outside of the knee, causing many athletes to mistake this condition for a knee injury. The above-mentioned inflammation is the most notable symptoms of iliotibial band syndrome. Activity that forces the leg to turn inward, such as distance running, running downhill, or wearing improper footwear, causes the iliotibial band to tighten and rub against the bony outer section of the femur (the femoral epicondyle), which damages the ligament and causes inflammation. Iliotibial band syndrome is most often caused by overuse, especially among runners. This allows the knee to move, flex, and extend without destabilizing the knee joint. When functioning properly, the iliotibial band serves to stabilize the lateral section of the knee.
It runs across both the hip joint and the knee joint and attaches to the knee. The iliotibial band is a tough, fibrous ligament that extends from the pelvis (hip) to the shin bone (tibia) on the outside of the leg. However, many athletes are unfamiliar with this ligament and its anatomy consequently, they may not realize that their knee pain is associated with iliotibial band issues and is not a joint problem. Iliotibial band syndrome is one of the most common causes of knee pain among runners. That’s why we’ve compiled the following guide to iliotibial band syndrome identification (including an overview of anatomy and symptoms) and treatment, especially for runners and track athletes. While we are proud to offer the most effective surgical treatments for orthopaedic issues, it is always preferable to identify symptoms early when nonoperative treatments and activity modifications are still viable and sufficient to address the issue. If the condition isn’t promptly addressed, it may advance to a degree of damage that requires surgical intervention.Īt Rothman Orthopaedic Institute in Glen Mills, we specialize in Sports Medicine. When identified early, this condition can be effectively addressed using iliotibial band exercises, iliotibial band stretches, and other non-surgical treatment methods. To promote and sustain long-term health, athletes of all types should familiarize themselves with the classic orthopaedic issues that affect participants of their chosen activity, including indicator symptoms, prevention methods, and effective treatments.įor runners, one such issue that runners should be informed, aware, and cautious of is iliotibial band syndrome.Īmong track athletes, iliotibial band syndrome (also commonly referred to as IT band syndrome) is one of the most common injuries caused by overuse. With that in mind, awareness is a key element of preventative health. The sooner an emerging issue is identified, the sooner treatment can begin and any activities that are contributing to the issue can be halted or modified. The key to long-term orthopaedic health among athletes is to be proactive. Rothman Orthopaedic Institute Offers Specialized Treatment for Iliotibial Band Syndrome