Blog Post 1: ITband Syndrome
Understanding IT Band Syndrome: A Common Injury In The Running Population:
Understanding IT Band Syndrome: A Common Injury In The Running Population
If you're an avid runner, especially this time of the year during the colder months when sidewalks are icy and roads can be slippery, or if you are running the trails a lot, you might have heard of IT Band Syndrome (ITBS). It's a frustrating condition that affects many endurance athletes, particularly runners. Over the next few blogs we will be explaining what IT Band Syndrome is, how I treat it as a chiropractor and how to prevent it once it gets better.
In this post, we will focus on what IT Band Syndrome is, why it's so common in runners, and how to recognize the early signs and symptoms of it.
What Is the IT Band?
The iliotibial band (IT Band) is a thick band of fascia (connective tissue) that runs along the outside of your thigh, from your hip to just below your knee. Its primary function is to stabilize the knee during running and other dynamic movements. While the IT Band itself doesn’t contract like a muscle, it plays an important role in supporting movement, particularly in activities that involve running, cycling, or jumping.
What Causes IT Band Syndrome?
IT Band Syndrome occurs when the IT Band becomes tight or inflamed, usually at the point where it crosses over the outer portion of the knee. The friction between the IT Band and the knee structures leads to irritation and pain. This can feel like a stabbing or sharp pain on the outer part of the knee. Though it is coming from the soft tissue of the IT Band, it can feel like it is the bone causing the pain.
Runners tend to be particularly vulnerable due to the repetitive compressive impact and motion of running. Biomechanical issues like improper alignment, muscle imbalances, poor footwear or slippery/wet conditions can contribute to the development of ITBS.
Signs & Symptoms To Look Out For With IT Band Syndrome:
Where:
Pain on the outside of the knee
Tenderness or swelling
Sensation of Tightness along the outside of the thigh
Aggravating Factors:
Walking/running down the stairs, downhill or knee flexion (ex. Squatting)
Pain during or after a run
Repetitive jumping
Sitting with your legs crossed
If you have ever struggled with IT Band Syndrome or are a runner who continues their running outdoors through the winter time or spends a lot of time on on the trails, feel free to reach out to book a Gait Analysis and full assessment today!
To Book:
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https://endurance.janeapp.com/#staff_member/1
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