Iliotibial Band Syndrome
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The iliotibial (IT) band is the large band of fascia that runs down the lateral (outer) edge of the thigh. It connects from the hip to the knee, and is extremely important in the stabilization and movement of the knee joint. Iliotibial band syndrome (ITBS) is a common overuse injury, and often manifests in runners, hikers, and cyclists.
Rather than friction causing irritation of the ITB, it is now thought that compression of the associated fat layer (seen in the middle picture) is the main culprit. This fat is full of small blood vessels and nerves (Pacinian corpuscles) which makes it a far more likely suspect as the pain generating structure in ITB syndrome. The reasons for excessive compression are excessive tightness of the outside quadraceps (usually from weak pelvic stability), tightness of the tensor fascia latte, and tightness of the gluteus maximus.
Most commonly, the symptoms of ITBS are swelling and pain on the outside, upper edge of the knee. This is especially notable when walking down stairs or running downhill. If left untreated, the condition can become chronic. Traditionally, prescribed treatment is ice, elevation, and unfortunately, an extended rest from the aggravating activities.
At Granville Physio, your therapist can use shockwave therapy to target the IT band and associated tight muscles, accelerating the healing of the irritated fascia and fat pad. Additionally, we can teach you how to improve your arch mechanics, appropriately release and stretch the muscles of the thigh, strengthen the pelvis to obtain stability and reduce reliance on the quadriceps muscles, and potentially apply insoles to the feet.
Rather than friction causing irritation of the ITB, it is now thought that compression of the associated fat layer (seen in the middle picture) is the main culprit. This fat is full of small blood vessels and nerves (Pacinian corpuscles) which makes it a far more likely suspect as the pain generating structure in ITB syndrome. The reasons for excessive compression are excessive tightness of the outside quadraceps (usually from weak pelvic stability), tightness of the tensor fascia latte, and tightness of the gluteus maximus.
Most commonly, the symptoms of ITBS are swelling and pain on the outside, upper edge of the knee. This is especially notable when walking down stairs or running downhill. If left untreated, the condition can become chronic. Traditionally, prescribed treatment is ice, elevation, and unfortunately, an extended rest from the aggravating activities.
At Granville Physio, your therapist can use shockwave therapy to target the IT band and associated tight muscles, accelerating the healing of the irritated fascia and fat pad. Additionally, we can teach you how to improve your arch mechanics, appropriately release and stretch the muscles of the thigh, strengthen the pelvis to obtain stability and reduce reliance on the quadriceps muscles, and potentially apply insoles to the feet.
