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Iliotibial Band Syndrome-ITB
SIGNS & SYMPTOMS
- Primarily located on the outside (lateral) aspect of the knee
- Pain can also be noticeable along the outside (lateral) of the leg from the hip down towards the knee
- Pain can be described as a dull aching pain to a sharp stabbing pain
DEFINITION AND ANATOMY
- ITB usually results from a tightening of the band of tissue that runs from the crest of the hip bone where it is supported by the tensor fascia late muscle (flexor) in front and the gluteus maximus muscle (extensor) in the back. It runs the length of the outside of the leg and inserts into the lateral upper portion of the lower leg (tibia) below the knee.
- ITB assists in stabilizing the knee while standing; while running and walking it assists in flexion and extension of the knee
- When the knee flexes the ITB slides backwards and as the knee extends it will slide forward
CAUSATIVE FACTORS
- Excessive flexion and extension of the knee causing the ITB band to rub across the lateral condyle (outside of the knee)
- Excessive movement of the foot (hyperpronation) rolling inward that causes the arch of the foot to flatten causing the lower leg to rotate inwards slightly but with repetitive stresses it causes the ITB to rub across the knee area leading to the inflammation.
- Training errors such as running on crowned roads, up and down hills, increasing mileage too soon, or coming off an injury too soon, or simply going too fast too soon
- Biomechanical abnormalities of the spine and pelvis, leg length abnormalities, joint laxity all resulting in excessive stresses [see gait cycle]
- Improper fitting shoes that do not match foot structure [see shoes] causing a change in foot biomechanics and/or lack sufficient structural support
TREATMENT CONSIDERATIONS
- Use of ice to control pain and reduce inflammation and swelling
- Stretching the ITB to relax the gluteus maximus and tensor fascia latae muscles
- Wearing the appropriate shoes to match foot structure to allow proper movement and support of the foots arches [see shoes]
- If contributing factors are due to hyperpronation of the feet causing the biomechanical alterations then custom made spinal pelvic stabilizers (orthotics) should be considered to support the arches of the foot and control excessive movement
- Have an analysis of your gait cycle (running and walking form) by a biomechanical specialist. See How We Can Help.
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