Iliotibial Band Syndrome Treatment
The iliotibial band runs from the hip to the top of the tibia on the outside of each leg. This band of tissue supports the lateral part of the knee and is instrumental in hip movement and rotation. The iliotibial (IT) band can become irritated with repetitive use, usually from running, resulting in iliotibial band syndrome. Jonathan Glashow, MD, Orthopedic Surgery & Sports Medicine offers iliotibial (IT) band syndrome treatment for all levels of athletes at our clinic in UES New York City.
Causes and Symptoms of IT Band Syndrome
The IT band slips over the bottom outside of the femur, or thigh bone, when you bend or extend your leg. For runners, especially long distance or marathon runners, this continuous movement of the IT band over the femur can cause friction and irritation. The IT band can become irritated, or other tissues under the IT band may be affected. Irritation or inflammation in nearby bursae, tendons or other tissues can result in pain. Symptoms can include:
- Pain on the outside of the knee
- A burning pain spreading from the knee up the thigh
- Pain may worsen when running or exercising
- Pain may worsen when climbing stairs
For mild cases of IT band syndrome, rest, NSAIDs and ice can relieve symptoms. For more severe IT band syndrome cases, treatment may be necessary. Interventional treatments like corticosteroid injections may offer relief, and physical therapy can help restore function. In some cases, surgery may be recommended when less invasive treatments are not effective at relieving pain or inflammation.
If IT band syndrome pain is keeping you from training or enjoying your daily run, come visit our sports medicine specialists at Jonathan Glashow, MD, Orthopedic Surgery & Sports Medicine. We can offer IT band syndrome, or runner’s knee, treatment at our facility in NYC.
