Common Causes Of ITB Syndrome
Iliotibial band (ITB) syndrome is a common overuse injury that affects the iliotibial band, a thick band of connective tissue that runs along the outside of the thigh. This syndrome occurs when the ITB becomes tight or inflamed, leading to pain and discomfort, typically on the outer side of the knee and sometimes along the thigh.
1. Overuse or Repetitive Stress: Activities that involve repetitive knee bending and straightening, such as running, cycling, hiking, or prolonged walking.
2. Muscle Imbalances: Weakness or tightness in the muscles surrounding the hip and knee, such as the glutes, quadriceps, and hip abductors.
3. Improper Training Techniques: Sudden increases in training intensity or duration without proper conditioning.
4. Anatomical Factors: Structural abnormalities, such as leg length discrepancies or abnormal hip alignment, that can affect the biomechanics of the knee and ITB.
5. Footwear or Running Surface: Wearing worn-out shoes or running on uneven or hard surfaces.
1. Pain: Sharp or burning pain on the outer side of the knee or thigh during activity, which may worsen with prolonged movement.
2. Swelling: Occasionally, there may be swelling or thickening of the ITB at the knee joint.
3. Tenderness: Tenderness over the outer side of the knee, especially when pressing on the ITB.
4. Crepitus: A crackling or popping sensation over the outer knee when bending or straightening the leg.