Physicians Board Certified in Family Practice, Emergency Medicine, Internal Medicine and Pediatrics

Iliotibial Band Syndrome

published on 08-24-2010

-- David L. Priebe, M.D., ABFM-CAQ

What is Iliotibial Band (IT) Syndrome?
This is an overuse phenomenon where friction of the tendon and lateral bony prominence of the knee causes pain. Often times the bursa (a fluid filled sac) becomes inflamed.

Who gets IT Band Syndrome?
This is seen often in runners and cyclists. Athletes who perform a lot of bending (flexion of the knee) during activities may experience this pain.

What makes IT Band Syndrome worse?
Runners who do a lot of downhill running or running on a sloped (cambered) road can aggravate this condition.

Where is the pain located?
The pain is located on the outside of the knee, or the lateral aspect.

What do I do if I experience this type of pain?
Obviously you can take over the counter anti-inflammatory medication and local icing. However, if the pain is prolonged, schedule a visit with your local physician.

What can my physician do for the chronic pain?
Your physician can schedule you for physical therapy, can use injections of cortisone as well as recommend stretching techniques. There are some braces out there which can alleviate some of the symptoms.



The use of this site is for information purposes only and is not intended nor suited to be a replacement or substitute for professional medical advice or diagnosis. The information on this site does not establish a doctor/patient relationship. Plum Creek Medical does not claim responsibility for medical information not specifically prescribed by our staff. Information on this Web site is subject to change and is deemed reliable but not guaranteed.

Home | Services | PCM Doctors | Insurance | Forms | Comments | Contact Us | Privacy Policy | Newsletters