Iliotibial Band Syndrome (ITBS) – Physiotherapy Services Overview (Approx. 500 Words)
Iliotibial Band Syndrome (ITBS) is a common overuse injury that typically affects athletes, especially runners and cyclists. It occurs when the iliotibial band—a thick band of connective tissue that runs along the outside of the thigh from the hip to the shin—becomes tight or inflamed, causing pain around the lateral knee or hip. At our physiotherapy clinic, we offer a comprehensive treatment approach to manage and rehabilitate ITBS effectively, ensuring long-term relief and prevention of recurrence.
Causes of ITBS
The most common cause of ITBS is repetitive flexion and extension of the knee, which leads to friction between the IT band and the lateral femoral epicondyle. Contributing factors include:
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Improper biomechanics (e.g., overpronation of the foot)
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Weak hip or gluteal muscles
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Tightness in the IT band, glutes, or hip flexors
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Sudden increase in training intensity or mileage
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Poor footwear or uneven running surfaces
Symptoms
Patients with ITBS often experience:
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Sharp or burning pain on the outer part of the knee
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Pain that worsens with activity, particularly running or cycling
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Tenderness over the lateral femoral condyle
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Occasional snapping or popping sensation during movement
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Hip or thigh tightness in more advanced cases
Physiotherapy Management
Our treatment for ITBS focuses on both pain relief and correcting the underlying biomechanical issues. Here's how we approach it:
1. Pain Management
In the acute stage, we use modalities such as:
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Ice therapy to reduce inflammation
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Ultrasound and TENS for pain control
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Manual therapy to release myofascial restrictions
2. Stretching and Flexibility
Gentle stretching of the IT band, gluteus maximus, hip flexors, and tensor fascia latae (TFL) is essential. Our therapists guide you through targeted stretches to restore muscle length and flexibility.
3. Strengthening Exercises
We focus on strengthening weak muscles that contribute to poor biomechanics, especially:
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Gluteus medius and maximus
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Hip abductors
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Core stabilizers
These exercises help in realigning your gait and reducing lateral stress on the knee.
4. Foam Rolling and Myofascial Release
We incorporate self-myofascial release techniques using foam rollers to reduce tightness in the IT band and surrounding muscles. Our therapists may also perform manual trigger point therapy.
5. Biomechanical Corrections
Our physiotherapists assess your running or cycling form, foot alignment, and posture. We recommend:
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Gait retraining
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Orthotics if required
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Proper footwear advice
6. Activity Modification
You’ll be guided on modifying activities to reduce strain on the IT band. Gradual return-to-sport protocols are tailored to your fitness level and goals.
7. Education and Prevention
We educate you on the importance of warm-ups, stretching, strength maintenance, and training load management to prevent recurrence.
Conclusion
Iliotibial Band Syndrome can be a frustrating and painful condition, especially for active individuals. However, with a thorough assessment and a customized physiotherapy plan, recovery is achievable. Our clinic is committed to helping you overcome ITBS with evidence-based interventions and supportive care, so you can return to your activities stronger and pain-free.