Iliotibial Band (ITB) Syndrome -

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.

• Tight ITB
• Poor foot biomechanics e.g overpronation
• Leg length difference
• Tight muscles such as Hamstrings, Calves, Gluteals, Quadriceps and Hip Flexors
• Weak hip stabilising muscles and poor core stability
• Overtraining
• Incorrect footwear

If the pain persists it is worth having a physiotherapist accurately diagnose and assess the area. Physio treatment may include:

• Rest from aggravating activities
• Icing
• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatories
• Deep friction massage and myofacial release to the ITB and other tight muscles
• Dry needling techniques
• Advise on strengthening and stretching program

There are also many preventative measures that your physiotherapist may advise you on and these include:

• Strengthening work for the hip and knee and core muscles.
• Stretches for tight muscles.
• Shoe advice and or orthotics.
• Lower limb alignment assessment
• Advice on cross training, and avoidance of overtraining