Let’s talk about ITB Friction Syndrome. This painful and irritating condition is commonly seen in runners, cyclists and even military personnel.
And what exactly does ITB mean? ITB stands for Iliotibial band. This is a long, thin band of fascia that runs down the outside of your thigh.
At the top of the thigh it is attached to the Tensor Fascia Latae muscle and Gluteus Maximus. It runs all the way down to your lower leg bone, also known as the Tibia and Femoral Condyle on lower outside portion of the thigh bone.
This band can become irritated and painful due to poor biomechanics. Your biomechanics are altered by factors such as different training techniques that can cause muscle weakness, fatigue and general muscle imbalances.
Some of the most common causes of ITB Friction Syndrome include:
- Poor running technique
- Weak hip rotators
- Weak inner quadriceps
- Weak core muscles
- Weak hip / gluteal muscles
- Old running shoes that are no longer suitable
- Sudden increase in training / marathon training
- Running downhill excessively
And here are some of the warning signs of ITB Friction Syndrome:
- Swelling over the outside of the knee
- Pain when you bend your knees (especially at the start of the bend)
- Sharp or burning pan just above the outer of the knee
- Pain that continually progresses when completing repetitive movements
- Pain that interferes with sport or routine activities and persists
The good news is that physiotherapy can bring relief and manage this painful condition. Your physiotherapist will get to the cause of your ITB Friction Syndrome and work out a progressive treatment plan. Many patients with this condition feel better within just a few short weeks after commencing treatment.
Regular physiotherapy will reduce your acute pain and inflammation as well as strengthen your hip, knee and leg muscles. De-loading your IT band and assistance with modifying your training will also help to manage the condition.
Contact the Progressive team today on (02) 4721 7798 if you have any questions or queries in regards to ITB Friction Syndrome or would like to book in an initial assessment.