Iliotibial ("IT") Band Syndrome

Your IT band is a thick band of tissue that starts at your hip, runs down the outside of the thigh, and attaches to the lateral part of the lower leg, just below the knee. Many muscles around the hip attach to the IT band, meaning it transmits a lot of force.

This area can become irritated with repetitive motions of the hip and knee. IT band syndrome is more commonly seen in runners, cyclists, and people who walk a lot.

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS:

The most common signs and symptoms are pain and tenderness in the outside of the knee. Difficulty with weight bearing, decreased range of motion and strength are also possible.

HOW CAN PHYSICAL THERAPY HELP?

Foam rolling and stretching are commonly prescribed to help with IT band syndrome. However, good PT will include strengthening, gait analysis, and work on proper mechanics to improve the underlying causes of this condition, which can include weakness in the core and hip, poor management of training volume, and many other factors.