Iliotibial Band Syndrome (ITBS)

What is Iliotibial Band Syndrome (ITBS)?

The iliotibial band (IT band) is a long, flat sheath of connective tissue that extends from the outside of the pelvis, running over the hip and knee, and ultimately inserting just below the knee. The IT band plays a critical role in stabilizing the knee during running.

Repeated rubbing of the IT band over the lateral femoral epicondyle (the bony outside of the knee) associated with repeated flexion/extension of the knee can cause the IT band to become inflamed, resulting in iliotibial band syndrome (ITBS).

The primary symptom of ITBS is pain along the outside of the knee. This pain is typically aggravated by running, particularly downhill. It may not occur immediately during activity, but often becomes more intense as the activity progresses. Pain might also be present at the outside of the hip and/or in the buttocks.

Causes of ITBS include consistently running on a banked surface, such as the should over the road, inadequate warm up or cool down, excessive hill running, or foot/leg abnormalities including high or low arches, supination of the foot, uneven leg length, or bowleggedness.

Treatment of Iliotibial Band Syndrome (ITBS)

ITBS can be treated via the R.I.C.E. regimen. Anti-inflammatories can be used to reduce pain an inflammation. Self-massage and stretching, particularly involving a foam roller, are also known to be effective treatments. It is also important to identify and rectify the underlying cause of the problem to speed recovery and prevent recurrences.

If the discomfort persists, seek the opinion of a trained medical professional.

Alphabetical Index of Injuries: