What is IT Band Friction Syndrome?
The Iliotibial Band (IT Band) is a broad band of thick connective tissue that is located on the outside of the leg. This band begins at the level of your hip and connects to the outside of the knee.
The IT band get irritated when it rubs over the outside of the knee during activities that cause repetitive knee bending and extending, such as running or cycling. IT band syndrome is characterized by pain through the outside of the knee that progressively gets worse with activity. The pain from IT band friction syndrome can range from a sharp twinge to a general ache and burn.
Rehab for IT band injuries emphasize improving hip mobility, intramuscular stimulation (IMS), cupping, taping, and progressive hip strengthening. Rolling the IT band out on a foam roller is a painful, ineffective, and outdated practice.
If you are experiencing knee pain, call Momentum Physical Therapy & Sports Rehab today to find out how we can help alleviate your knee pain!
Stephen Uhrbach is the clinic owner and lead physiotherapist at MOMENTUM Physical Therapy & Sports Rehab Ltd. located in Okotoks, AB.