Your friendly Chiropractor in Chandler AZ, Dr. Dan Rae, is back at the computer today moving down the leg a little bit to talk about Iliotibial Band Syndrome also known as ITB Syndrome or ITBS. This is something that I would have to say that I see every single day in my office, and therefore, it needs to be addressed.
In the image above by MendMeShop, we are clearly able to see the structures involved with Iliotibial Band Syndrome. It is believed that the cause of this syndrome stems from a tight iliotibial band (ITB) that rubs against the lateral epicondyle of the femur when the knee is bent at approximately 30 to 40 degrees. There are predisposing factors to this syndrome such as running downhill, hyperpronation (arches collapse and ankles roll in), or cycling without allowing the leg to become fully extended at the bottom of each rotation.
These patients come into my office complaining of pain on the outside of their (lateral) knee that has progressively increased with time. The pain is almost related to running, but some individuals may develop it from sitting for long periods. Downhill running seems to be the main cause and pain occurs just before the heel makes contact with the ground. Some of my patients report a squeaking noise when bending and straightening the knee.
Treatment for Iliotibial Band Syndrome is not one of the most comfortable treatments. In the acute phase rest and ice is necessary, but as soon as possible stretching and myofascial release techniques such as Active Release Technique (ART) and Graston Technique should be implemented to break up any fibrotic adhesions that may have developed between the ITB and the surrounding musculature. Kinesiology Tape has also been shown to alleviate some on the tension being placed on the ITB. In some cases orthotics are necessary to prevent hyperpronation.
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