IT Band Syndrome

The ITB or iliotibial band (ITB) is a thin band of fascia (band or sheet of connective tissue).  This band is located on the outside of the thigh.  it is attached to muscles at the top of your thigh called the tensor fascia latae (TFL) and the gluteal maximus muscle.  At the bottom, the ITB attaches to the lower portion of the femur (upper leg bone) and the upper portion of the tibia (lower leg bone) just below your knee joint. 

 

This band of fascia can slide back and forth over the bony protuberance on the femur (lateral femoral condyle) when the knee bends and straightens.  This excessive friction and can cause sharp or burning pain just above the joint on the outer part of the knee.

 

The most common cause of ITB syndrome is altered biomechanics of the knee or with overuse.   Overuse can be seen with an abrupt change in miles jogging or biking, change in shoe wear, change of seat height on your bike.  Underlying muscle imbalances (weakness or tightness) can alter the biomechanics of the knee.  This can place tension on the ITB and cause excessive friction of the ITB over the lateral femoral condyle. 

 

Proper hip and gluteal muscle strengthening, consistent stretching of the tensor fascia latae musculature, and  adequate control of poor foot arches are 3 successful ways of treating IT band syndrome.