Iliotibial Band Syndrome or IT Band Syndrome(ITBS) is a condition that causes pain in the hip and/or the outside(lateral) knee.  The IT Band is a tough ligament that runs from the outside(lateral side) of the hip down the outside(lateral side) of the Quadriceps muscle and inserts to the lateral(outside) side of the knee.  When ITBS occurs, it is mainly caused by repetitive use.  Typically, people that run, cycle, or weightlift are prime demographics for this injury.  But this can happen to anyone and is often seen in jobs that are more physical – laboring work.

Symptoms of ITBS are aches and/or sharp pain in the hip and/or at the lateral side of the knee.  This pain can be constant or intermittent.  Individuals will typically have pain when active and will see a limitation of certain movement – walking, running, climbing stairs, sitting to standing position as well as long term standing will elicit pain.  As the issue progresses one may notice extreme tightness at the hip and/or knee, cramping in the Quadriceps muscles, Hamstring muscles, and calf and shin muscles.  Limitations to range of motion can occur as well.  If left untreated, pain will increase and limitations will progress as well, but more importantly this can cause more severe injuries to occur at the hip and/or knee.

The best course of action for this injury is to seek professional help to properly evaluate and diagnose the issue.  This will allow the professional to build the proper treatment plan that best suits the injury and the individual themselves.  A good treatment plan for this issue would involve Mobilization of the pelvis, hip, and knee joints to allow for better mobility.  Manual therapy to help decrease stress in the soft tissues around the affected area which will help decrease pain.  Stability and strength work to help build and support the muscles, tendons, and ligaments in and around the area for improved function and decrease risk of future injury.  And finally, a proper education on how to manage the issue themselves for preventive and palliative care.