ITBS (Iliotibial Band Syndrome) typically presents with an insidious onset of lateral (outside) knee pain from overuse and is commonly seen in athletes, particularly runners. The exact cause of IT band syndrome is still unknown, but the accepted theory is that friction occurs between the distal IT band and the lateral femoral epicondyle of the knee during repetitive flexion and extension of the knee. Often, there are mobility issues and/or strength and stability issues on the symptomatic side. Patients affected by ITBS often report sharp and burning pain localized to the lateral aspect of the knee, which is exacerbated while running.
Factors Contributing to ITBS Include:
- Downhill running
- Wearing worn-out or old shoes
- Leg length discrepancy
- Repetitive running on the same side of the street
- Excessive pronation of the foot
- Weakness of the gluteus medius muscle
Should You Foam-Roll Your IT Band?
Absolutely not! The IT band is a thick, fibrous tissue (not a muscle) that is stronger than some metals. Tissue work to the IT band may be beneficial for some, but often worsens symptoms and exacerbates pain. Below are some, but not all, recommended treatment options for ITBS.
Treatment Options:
- Flexibility Exercises: Targeting muscles that have an attachment to the IT band.
- Myofascial Release Techniques: Detecting trigger points. Studies have shown trigger points in the vastus lateralis, gluteus medius, TFL, and distal biceps femoris can directly refer pain to the outside of the knee.
- Dry Needling: Studies support that dry needling the vastus lateralis and other thigh muscles can reduce pain.
- Strengthening the Detected Hip Muscles: Strength and stability training is not recommended until flexibility and myofascial restrictions have been resolved.
At FRWD Sports Therapy, Dr. Cappelletti can perform a physical examination that includes observation of gait, motion testing of the knee, hip, and ankles, manual palpation of the lower extremity muscles, and any indicated orthopedic test for both injury prevention and evaluation of your pain symptoms.