Physiotherapy Treatment of Illiotibial Band Syndrome (ITBS)

Illiotibial Band Syndrome (ITBS)

·         IT Band Syndrome is due to inflammation of the IT Band which is a thick fibrous band of tissue that runs down the outside of the hip and thigh, connecting just below the outside of the knee.

·         This condition is most common in runners.

Factors that Contribute to Injury

•          People who suddenly increase their mileage or activity may develop IT Band Syndrome.

•          Running or hiking downhill is also a common cause of ITBS.

•          Other common factors are poor foot mechanics (over-pronation), old running shoes, and running on a crowned road or track.

•          Abnormal running biomechanics

•          Poor pelvic or core stability

•          Tightness in specific joints

Signs and Symptoms

•          Pain over the outside of the knee with running

•          Pain increases with downhill activities

•          Pain decreases with rest

•          Tender to the touch

•          Any movement of the knee may be painful

Physiotherapy treatment and advice

•          Rest and icing at least 5 times per day for 10 minute intervals

•          Avoid training of uneven surfaces

•          Proper footwear (orthotics or new shoes)

•          Stretching exercises to increase the flexibility of IT band, piriformis and gluteal muscles

•          Modify activities and biomechanical correction

•          Gradual increases in mileage

•          Alternate running direction on track and road.

•          Joint mobilization

•          Dry needing

•          Core stability exercise

•          Kinesio-taping

•          Use of appropriate IT band straps

Stretching

•          It must be done slowly and gradual

•          It should not be bouncing of jerky.

•          Hold for 10 sec, keep 10 sec rest and repeat for 10 times (10-10-10)

•          Stretch before and after activity

•          Stretch both legs

•          Stretch IT band, piriformis, gluteal and hamstring muscles.

Strengthening

•          Once the acute painful stage gets subside, strengthening exercise should be started using resistance with weights or thera-bands.