The iliotibial band, or IT band, is an elastic piece of connective tissue that connects the hip to the knee, helping move the leg outward, as well as helping with knee flexion and extension. Iliotibial band syndrome occurs when the IT band is irritated from overuse, and when the tissue rubs against the femoral epicondyle, resulting in pain on the lateral side of the knee.
What is the cause?
Iliotibial band syndrome occurs when a person’s IT band is too tight and repeatedly rubs against the knee and lower femur. Inadequate stretching, overuse of the knee, and pushing yourself too hard are often how an athlete develops this condition. IT band syndrome is common in athletes that repeatedly bend their knees, such as runners and bicyclists. In Runners, he or she may notice more pain with a slower pace than a faster run. Going up and down stairs or hill running may also incite or increase the pain.
An overpronator, or in other words flat feet, weak or tight hip muscles or poor running technique can all contribute to or cause ITB syndrome.
What are the symptoms?
- Pain on the outside of the knee
- Popping sound on the outside of the knee
- Burning or warm feeling on the outside of the knee
- Pain from thigh to hip
Dr. Petersen is well trained to correctly diagnose and treat IT band syndrome. See the list below of the multiple treatment options.
Tests
Dr. Petersen may perform what’s called the Ober’s test. The patient will lie on his or her side with the unaffected leg down while bending the unaffected hip at a 90 degree angle. The affected leg will then be adducted towards midline and floor. If the leg cannot cross midline or pain is felt prior to midline, then a tight ITB is considered.
Treatments
Treatment in for the IT band is broken down into three segments:
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- Pain reduction
Stopping or decreasing the activity that is causing the pain is the main goal of our first treatment segment. Applying ice and heat alternatively throughout the day will help with both pain and inflammation. Our Class 4 laser treatment is very effective for this segment. - A range of treatments to restore oxygen and proper nutrients to the damaged segment
- ART Active Release Technique
- Class 4 laser
- Graston Technique Therapy
Successful in effectively treating all soft tissue conditions, whether they are chronic, acute or post- surgical. The technique and instruments enable the treatment of scar tissue and fascial restrictions during rehabilitation that allows for faster rehabilitation and with greater success when the goal is restoring range of motion, eliminating pain, and restoring normal function. - E-stim
Electric muscle stimulation using a device that delivers electronic pulses to motor nerves through electrodes placed on the skin, causing a motor response to achieve a number of desired results. - Cold laser
Cold laser therapy is low-intensity laser therapy that stimulates healing while using low levels of light. Different wavelengths and outputs of low-level light are applied directly to a targeted area where the body tissue then absorbs the light. The red and near-infrared light cause a reaction and the damaged cells respond with a physiological reaction that promotes regeneration.
- Exercise and proper stretching
Custom and effective physiotherapy regiment to both decrease pain and restore proper function for the leg.
- Pain reduction
Contact us for help with your IT Band
Dr. Petersen can help with your IT Band. Contact us to make an appointment.