Iliotibial Band Syndrome or IT Band syndrome
By Ehren Allen, Certified Manual Therapist/Physical Therapist
What is IT Band Syndrome?
Iliotibial band syndrome is a painful inflammation of the iliotibial band. This is a thick, tendon-like portion of a muscle. It travels from the pelvis down the lateral side of the thigh and across the knee to connect to the tibia. It has many functions which include:
- Stabilizing the outside of the knee through its range of motion.
- Moving the hip away from the midline of the body.
- Assisting with knee flexion/extension.
Please watch this educational video on IT Band Syndrome.
Iliotibial Band Syndrome Causes
ITBS is an overuse injury resulting from poor training habits most commonly seen in long distance athletes such as runners and cyclists. However, certain individuals are more prone to ITBS. Discrepancies in leg length, pelvic tilts, or bowed legs may cause the IT band to become very tight and become irritated in times of activity. Also, athletes with tight IT Bands usually have tight hamstrings as well. In other words, stretch all of the muscles in the lower leg.
iliotibial band ITB stretch with belt
Signs and Symptoms of IT Band Syndrome
Iliotibial Band Syndrome (ITBS) causes pain aggravated by activity. It is felt on the outer side of the knee. This is due to inflammation caused by the band crossing back and forth. However, stinging feelings in the leg may be one of the first, often overlooked warning signs. Therefore, if you think you have this problem, you should be properly evaluated. Lateral meniscus tears often have the same symptoms.
IT Band Syndrome
To learn about Stretching the IT Band, read our Article on Healthy Stretches.
JOI Rehab Treats the IT Band
Whether you are suffering from ITBS or injuries resulting from any type of activity; JOI has physical therapy clinics conveniently located in Jacksonville and Northeast FL. We have clinicians who specialize in orthopedic rehab.
JOI and JOI Rehab
JOI Physicians continue to offer online new patient appointments. This is another option to make it more convenient to make new patient appointments with less phone hold times. Follow the link below to select your JOI MD and schedule online.
You can still call 904-JOI-2000 to make new patient JOI Physician Appointments if that is your preference.
To make appointments with JOI Rehab, please call 904-858-7045.
By: Ehren Allen, Certified Manual Therapist/Physical Therapist
