The Iliotibial band (ITB) is a fibrous band extending from the hip to the outside of the knee. It is also involved in stabilising the hip and knee, particularly in activities such as running and walking.
The ITB arises from the pelvis and continues down to the bony part on the outside of the knee. It is here where it is prone to friction. This can cause pain down the side of the leg and cause friction on the outside of the knee joint. In people who run regularly this may lead to irritation of the ITB – this is termed ITB Friction Syndrome.
This pain is often worse on going down slopes or stairs and getting up from a seated position. It is a common complaint seen in physiotherapy sports injury clinics.
There are many causes of ITB injury.
If the pain persists it is worth having a physiotherapist accurately diagnose and assess the area. Physio treatment may include:
There are also many preventative measures that your physiotherapist may advise you on and these include: