The Basics
Written by the doctors and editors at UpToDate � �
What is iliotibial band syndrome? " � Iliotibial band syndrome is a condition that causes pain on the outside of the knee. � �
This condition involves a strong band of tissue called the "iliotibial band " �. The iliotibial band runs down the outside of the thigh, from the hip bone to the top of the shinbone. � �
Iliotibial band syndrome commonly happens in runners, especially after they increase their workouts. � �
What are the symptoms of iliotibial band syndrome? " � Iliotibial band syndrome causes an aching, burning pain on the outside of the knee. The pain sometimes spreads up the thigh to the hip. The pain happens when people run (or do other physical activity). � �
For some people, the pain lasts even after they finish their workout. Movements that make the pain worse include going up and down stairs, and standing up from a seated position. � �
Will I need tests? " � Probably not. Your doctor or nurse should be able to tell if you have this condition by learning about your symptoms and doing an exam. � �
How is iliotibial band syndrome treated? " � Treatment usually involves a few parts. � �
The first part of treatment involves things you can do on your own to reduce your pain. To ease your symptoms, you can: � �
- Rest your knee and avoid activities or movements that make the pain worse.
- Put ice on the outside of your knee when it hurts or after activities that cause pain. You can put a cold gel pack, bag of ice, or bag of frozen vegetables on the painful area every 1 to 2 hours, for 15 minutes each time. Put a thin towel between the ice (or other cold object) and your skin.
- Take a pain-relieving medicine. Over-the-counter medicines include acetaminophen (sample brand name: Tylenol) or ibuprofen (sample brand names: Advil, Motrin).
Another part of treatment involves exercises to stretch and strengthen the muscles around your hip and knee. You can start these when your pain improves. Your doctor or nurse will show you which exercises and stretches to do. Or he or she will have you work with a physical therapist (exercise expert). � �
Can iliotibial band syndrome be prevented? " � Yes. To help prevent getting iliotibial band syndrome again, you can: � �
- Replace your sneakers when they wear out.
- Run on even surfaces (and not on uneven surfaces).
- Run around a track in both directions (and not only in 1 direction).
- Ease up on your training and not run as far or as hard.
- Have an expert check how you run to make sure you run the correct way.
All topics are updated as new evidence becomes available and our peer review process is complete. � �
This topic retrieved from UpToDate on: Nov 04, 2014. � �
Topic 86738 Version 1.0 � �
Release: 22.8 - C22.208 � �
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