What is Iliotibial Band pain/syndrome?
Iliotibial band (IT band) syndrome, also known as runner’s knee, is one of the most common afflictions to the knee, whether or not you are a runner. The term runner’s knee, known in the medical community as chondromalacia patellae, refers to a pain at the front of the knee. Runner’s knee is therefore a condition and not a diagnosis of the underlying problem.
The IT band is a tough and fibrous tendon that extends from the pelvis down along the outside of the thigh all the way to the upper shinbone. The purpose of the band is to provide stability for the knee, but it can become irritated because of friction between the IT band and the bottom of the femur. IT Band Syndrome is one of the most common causes of knee pain in runners and cyclists.
Questions to be Answered on Your First Visit
-Is it your biomechanics of hips, knees, feet or a combination?
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Is it the fascia or muscles?
-Is it the way you run or walk?
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Is it your footwear?
-Are there exercises or things YOU can do to feel better?
Dr. Plutchok’s Approach is Different
No Drugs, No Surgery, No Night Splints, No Cortizone Shots
Dr. Plutchok uses 3 unique techniques to help relieve you of any pain you may currently be experiencing: Active Release Technique, Quantum Neurology Rehabilitation, and Functional Hallux Rehabilitation
More on IT Band Syndrome
How it Happens
Repeatedly running on the same side of a sloped road can lead to friction, irritation, and inflammation of the IT band. This causes a tilt in the pelvis as one foot to strikes the surface below the other. This places extra stress on the IT band. There can be other causes of the condition including but not limited to: repetitive bending and straightening of the knee, anatomical irregularities like bowed legs and differences in leg length, excessive rolling of the foot and ankle, a lateral tilt to the pelvis, weak or tight gluteal muscles, and weak or tight quad muscles.
Tight IT band and connection to the tibia
IT band syndrome symptoms range from a stinging sensation just above the knee joint (on the outside of the knee or along the entire length of the iliotibial band) to swelling or thickening of the tissue at the point where the band moves to the femur. Pain might persist after activity. Pain may also be present below the knee, where the IT band actually attaches to the tibia.
IT band connection to the hip
Runner’s knee can occur where the IT band connects to the hip, though this is less likely as a sports injury. It commonly occurs during pregnancy, as the connective tissues loosen and the woman gains weight, each process adding more pressure. Runner’s knee and IT band syndrom at the hip also commonly affects the elderly.