Iliotibial band friction syndrome (ITBFS) is an overuse injury. It happens in the soft tissues in the lower thigh near the outside of the knee. The iliotibial band (ITB) is a thick band of fibrous tissue. It runs from the hip down the outside of the thigh, and attaches to the tibia. The tibia is the large bone of the lower leg.
ITBFS is caused by repetitive friction or rubbing of the iliotibial band against the bone on the outer side of the knee. This excessive rubbing can irritate the ITB itself and/or the underlying tissue.
Causes of the excessive friction include:
Risk factors for developing ITBFS include:
Symptoms of ITBFS include:
The pain may be localized. It generally radiates around the outside of the knee and/or up the outside of the thigh. Pain typically starts as minor discomfort. It can then worsen progressively. Snapping, creaking, or popping may be present when the knee is bent and then straightened. There is usually no swelling.
The doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will be done. Diagnosis is based on these factors:
Tests may include:
Treatment depends on the cause.
Treatment may include:
Avoiding the causes of ITBFS is the best way to prevent it. This can include:
RESOURCES:
American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons
http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/
American Orthopaedic Society for Sport Medicine
http://www.sportsmed.org/
American Running Association
http://www.americanrunning.org/
CANADIAN RESOURCES:
Canadian Orthopaedic Association
http://www.coa-aco.org/
Canadian Orthopaedic Foundation
http://www.canorth.org/
The University of British Columbia Department of Orthopaedics
http://www.orthosurgery.ubc.ca/
References:
National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases website. Available at: http://www.niams.nih.gov/ .
Wheeless' Textbook of Orthopedics . 1996.
Last reviewed January 2009 by Robert E. Leach, MD
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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