Iliotibial Band Syndrome Treatment
The iliotibial band runs from the outside of the hip down the side of the leg, connecting to the top of the tibia (shinbone). This band of connective tissue provides support to the hip, leg and knee, but it can become inflamed from repetitive use. Runners and other athletes can experience iliotibial band syndrome, which is an inflammation of the band near the knee. Jonathan L. Glashow, MD orthopedic surgery and sports injury center offers iliotibial band syndrome treatment in Miami, FL.
Iliotibial (IT) band syndrome occurs when the IT band rubs against the bottom of the femur (thighbone). When you bend your knee, the IT band slips over the femur. Runners, especially long distance runners, can experience irritation of the IT band from constant rubbing against the femur. The tissue can become inflamed, causing pain and swelling. This can affect the surrounding tissues and components around the outside of the knee including bursae, tendons, ligaments and muscles.
Symptoms of IT Band Syndrome
While runners and athletes are prone to IT band syndrome, anyone can experience this knee condition when the band is irritated. Excess weight, poor leg alignment, poor footwear and other factors can contribute to IT band syndrome. Some of the symptoms of IT band syndrome include:
- Pain on the outside of the knee
- Burning sensation traveling up the thigh from the outer knee
- Increased knee pain when running or climbing stairs
- Swelling in the upper outside of the knee
Most cases of IT band syndrome are mild and may respond to conservative treatments. Using anti-inflammatory medications, ice and rest may relieve the inflammation of the IT band. For more severe or chronic IT band syndrome, steroid injections, physical therapy and other treatments may be recommended. In severe cases, surgery may be recommended when non-surgical treatments are ineffective.
If you have symptoms of iliotibial band (IT) band syndrome and want relief, contact our team at Jonathan L. Glashow, MD orthopedic surgery and sports injury center. Call our medical clinic in Miami, FL, to schedule an IT band syndrome consultation with one of our knee specialists.
