KNEE PAIN – ITB SYNDROME
Contact UsWhat Is ITB Syndrome?
Iliotibial band (ITB) syndrome, also known as IT band syndrome, is a common overuse injury that affects the outer side of the knee. It occurs when the iliotibial band, a thick band of tissue that runs along the outside of the thigh, becomes irritated or inflamed as it rubs against the outer part of the knee joint.
ITB syndrome is often seen in runners, cyclists, and other athletes who engage in repetitive activities that involve bending and straightening the knee, such as long-distance running, downhill running, or cycling. It can also be caused by overuse, improper training techniques, or an abnormality in the knee structure or alignment.
Symptoms of ITB syndrome include pain and tenderness on the outer side of the knee, particularly during activity or when descending stairs or hills. In some cases, swelling or a snapping or popping sensation may also be present.
What Causes ITB Syndrome?
ITB syndrome is caused by the irritation and inflammation of the iliotibial band, which is a thick band of tissue that runs along the outside of the thigh from the hip to the knee. The most common causes of ITB syndrome include:
- Overuse: Engaging in repetitive activities that involve bending and straightening the knee, such as long-distance running, cycling, or hiking, can lead to overuse and irritation of the IT band.
- Poor biomechanics: Abnormal alignment of the lower limbs or pelvis, such as flat feet, bowed legs, or rotated hips, can cause excessive stress on the IT band, leading to inflammation and pain.
- Training errors: Sudden increases in training volume, intensity, or frequency without proper rest and recovery can increase the risk of ITB syndrome.
- Poor flexibility: Tightness or stiffness in the hip, thigh, or calf muscles can lead to increased stress on the IT band and predispose individuals to ITB syndrome.
- Improper equipment: Worn-out or inappropriate footwear, or using equipment that does not fit properly, can increase the risk of ITB syndrome.
- Muscle weakness: Weakness in the hip, gluteal, or quadriceps muscles can cause increased stress on the IT band, leading to irritation and inflammation.
How We Take Care Of Your ITB Syndrome?
At Balancia, we provide comprehensive care for ITB (Iliotibial Band) Syndrome through a personalized treatment approach aimed at relieving symptoms and restoring function. Here’s how we take care of ITB Syndrome:
- Accurate Diagnosis: Our experienced healthcare providers conduct thorough evaluations to accurately diagnose ITB Syndrome and assess its severity.
- Individualized Treatment Plans: Based on the diagnosis and the patient’s specific needs, we develop personalized treatment plans tailored to address their symptoms and goals.
- Physical Therapy: Our skilled physical therapists offer specialized exercises and techniques to stretch and strengthen the ITB and surrounding muscles, improve flexibility, and address biomechanical issues contributing to ITB Syndrome.
- Activity Modification: We provide guidance on modifying activities and sports that may exacerbate ITB Syndrome symptoms, and offer recommendations on proper warm-up and cool-down routines to prevent recurrence.
- Manual Therapy: Our therapists may utilize manual techniques such as soft tissue mobilization and joint mobilizations to alleviate pain, reduce inflammation, and improve tissue mobility.
- Biomechanical Assessment: We conduct thorough assessments to identify underlying biomechanical factors contributing to ITB Syndrome, such as gait abnormalities or muscle imbalances, and develop targeted interventions to address these issues.
Request Appointment
Availability
Monday - Sunday
Hours
9 a.m. - 9 p.m.
Phone
(604)968-6557
Address
4536 Clinton Street, Burnaby, BC V5J 2K5, Canada