What is Iliotibial Band Syndrome?
The iliotibial band (ITB) is a tough group of fibers that run along the outside of the thigh from the hip to the knee. The gluteal muscles and the tensor fascia latae muscle of the hip, attach to the top of the ITB. The lower part of the ITB attaches to the tibia, just below the knee. The ITB functions primarily as a stabilizer of the leg and can become irritated from overuse. People suffering from ITBS will usually describe pain on the outside part of the knee or lower thigh. Symptoms are often worsened by going up or down stairs, or getting out of a car. Problems can occur when the tensor fasciae latae muscle and iliotibial band become tight. This causes the tendon to pull the knee joint out of alignment and causes friction against the outside of the knee, resulting in inflammation and pain.

What causes Iliotibial Band Syndrome?
There are two main causes of knee pain associated with ITBS. The first is overuse and the second is structural abnormalities. Overuse is common with sports that require a lot of running or weight bearing activity. This is why ITBS is common with running, cycling, skiing, playing soccer and weightlifting. When the iliotibial band becomes fatigued and overused it loses its ability to adequately stabilize the leg. This places stress on the knee joint, resulting in pain and damage to the structures that make up the knee joint.

Overuse on the ITB can be caused by a number of things. They include:

• Exercising on hard or uneven surfaces
• Increasing exercise intensity or duration too quickly
• Exercising in worn or poorly fitting shoes
• Excessive uphill or downhill running

Biomechanical or structural abnormalities can be caused by:

• Leg length differences
• Tight muscles in the leg
• Muscle imbalances
• Foot structure problems such as flat feet
• Walking or running style problems such as foot pronation

How to treat Iliotibial Band Syndrome
Treatment of ITBS begins with decreasing the intensity and duration of the activity that is contributing to the irritation of the band. Icing the area of pain, stretching and strengthening the muscles of the leg, and wearing proper footwear should also be part of the treatment of ITBS. In the most serious cases, when symptoms persist, your physician may prescribe an anti-inflammatory medication or surgery.

How Peoplefit can help
Peoplefit Health and Fitness Center is devoted to improving the health and wellness of people in the greater Woburn community. We use our expertise to create safe and effective individualized exercise programs in order to help you reach your goals. If you would like to speak with a physical therapist about exercise and its effects on any health related condition, please contact us.