Dr. Katharine Randall
Condition corner

Iliotibial Band Syndrome

Did you know that “IT Band” Syndrome is one of the leading causes of knee and hip pain? Athletic activities such as running, cycling, soccer, tennis, and martial arts can increase the probability of IT Band Syndrome. The Iliotibial Band is a superficial thickening of connective tissue on the outside of the thigh, extending from the outside of the pelvis, over the hip and knee, and inserting just below the outside of the knee. The band is crucial to knee stabilization during running, as it moves from behind the femur to the front while walking. The constant rubbing of the IT Band over the lateral femoral epicondyle (outside of the knee), combined with the repeated hip flexion and knee extension during running may cause the area to become inflamed, sore, and tight. Symptoms include a stinging or burning sensation or tightness at the outer hip, thigh or knee. Stretching, foam rolling, myofascial release, and assessing your feet for orthotics to support excessive pronation or supination may be great ways to prevent IT Band syndrome. Let your Sports Chiropractor or other health care provider know if this sounds like symptoms you may be experiencing. They may be able to provide you with specific stretches and exercises, use ultrasound or electric stimulation, hands-on manual therapies, or use specific taping techniques to treat and correct the problem.