I’m sure most of you have heard the terms runner’s knee or IT Band at some point in time… Now understanding what it means may be another thing. But don’t worry I’m gonna tell you all you need to know. ITB syndrome is very common and you may be suffering without knowing.
ITB refers to iliotibial band which is a band of tissue that runs on the outside of your leg from your hip to your knee. When this connective tissue becomes tight it rubs against the thighbone which in turn results in pain/discomfort at the outer side of the knee. This is a common condition found in distance runners but really anyone can suffer from ITB syndrome. Maybe you have been doing a lot of walking or have just started a running program?
So how does it present?
Many experience some of the following:
- A snapping sensation around the outer side of the knee
- Pulling sensation around the outer side of the knee
- Clicking sensation around the outer side of the knee
- Sharp pain and tenderness with walking, running, biking or simply going up and down stairs.
When people do a lot of repetitive movement (hip flexion) with poor mechanics or due to poor hip strength or fatigue is most commonly when it will start to be a problem. Often people will just deal with it and continue to repeat what’s causing it which can make the situation worse and it can also cause deviations in the way you walk which can cause other problems.
ITB syndrome is very common and easily treated but if you don’t address it early it can become a chronic condition!
How Can Physical Therapy Help???
Physical therapy can be very effective in treating ITB issues and most importantly educate you on how prevent or self manage any issues you may have in the future. Physical therapy will address the soft tissue mobility through manual techniques and stretching exercises that will release the taut tissues reducing the rubbing/friction source. We will also incorporate exercises to address any muscle weakness to improve your mechanics and get you back to the activity you love!
