ITB Syndrome: Causes & Treatment

The ITB syndrome accounts for about 22% of injuries arising out of overuse in runners and is the most common cause of “Runner’s Knee”. It’s caused by recurring trauma rather than a one-time injury, which is why it’s considered an overuse condition.

Symptoms

The symptoms of ITB syndrome can vary in severity from person to person. Common symptoms include:

*. Swelling on the outer side of the knee
*. A snapping or sharp pain sensation on the on the outer region of the knee
*. Pain in bending knee especially during early stages
*. Tenderness when pressing on the outside of the knee

Causes

Insufficient stretching, heel-to-ground impact issues, fatigue or weakness may lead to altered biomechanics and result in developing the ITB syndrome. Common causes include:

Improper running technique
Weakness of:

1. gluteal and hip muscles
2. hip rotators
3. core muscles
4. inner quadriceps
5. unequal leg length

*. training levels suddenly increased
*. excessive downhill training
*. excessive endurance training
*. insufficient attention to stretching, warming up or cooling down

Diagnosis

A thorough history and physical examination usually will be sufficient to diagnose the condition. There is usually tenderness on the lateral part of the thigh bone (femur) on the outside of the knee. Sometimes pain or a snapping sensation may be felt or experienced when the flexed knee is extended.

Treatment

In most cases physical therapy helps to relieve the symptoms. The goals are to:

*. Reduce inflammation and pain
*. Unload the IT band
*. Modify training exercises so as to reduce pain and avert its reoccurrence
*. Strengthen hip, leg and knee muscles
*. Normalize lower leg muscle strength
*. Check for unequal leg length
*. Normalize hip motion
*. Correct feet landing and running technique

How difficult is it to deal with the ITB syndrome? What’s your advice on coping with the syndrome? Share your thoughts and experiences with us below.

About Author:

Douglas Roberts MD is the rheumatologist and founder of PainSpot.com. PainSpot is dedicated to providing you with information about your pain and help you with an easy-to-use website to find relief from your pain.