Representing about 12% of all running injuries, iliotibial band syndrome (ITBS) occurs when the iliotibial band—which is a tendon that runs from your pelvic bone to your knee—becomes irritated or inflamed. ITBS can develop as a result of overexercising or failing to properly stretch before exercising. Speak with an orthopedic expert about ITBS treatments.
Signs and Symptoms
While exact symptoms of ITBS—and how mild or severe they are—depend on how the condition developed, patients commonly experience the following.
- Hip and Knee Pain: When the iliotibial band becomes tense, the tendon could start rubbing against the bones of your hip and leg, causing pain around your greater trochanter (located in your hip) and your lateral epicondyle (located in your knee).
- Knee Clicking: During movement, ITBS may cause snapping, popping or clicking sounds around the affected knee.
- Redness and Warmth: In addition to mild or severe pain, the affected knee may become discolored and warm to the touch when ITBS develops.
If not properly treated, ITBS can worsen, becoming painful during exercise and rest.
Risk Factors and Prevention
Because the iliotibial band is meant to stretch smoothly over your thigh bone, issues arise when the tendon becomes too tense or tight. For this reason, ITBS commonly affects athletes and fitness enthusiasts, including basketball players, cyclists, runners and skiers. One of the best ways to prevent ITBS is to prioritize safe fitness. This means stretching before exercise, allowing yourself time to warm up, and investing in supportive shoes.
How We Diagnose ITBS
Our orthopedic experts use the following procedures to diagnose ITBS.
- Physical Exam: In most cases, our experts can accurately diagnose iliotibial band syndrome based on the physical symptoms of the condition.
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): A combination of a magnetic field and radio waves creates three-dimensional images of specific areas of your body.
- Computerized Tomography (CT) Scan: Certified experts use computer-processed X-rays to generate a scan of your body in “slices” to create highly accurate images.
- X-ray: A common medical imaging procedure, X-rays use radiation to capture colorless images of your bones, joints and soft tissue.
Treatment Options
Most cases of ITBS can be managed with conservative treatment methods, such as icing the affected area and using over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen. Some cases may require physical therapy and strength training to ensure the condition doesn’t progress. In rare instances, ITBS can be managed through surgical treatment. Learn more about orthopedic conditions treated at Bayhealth, or speak with one of our experts.