What is IT Band Syndrome?

IT Band Syndrome (ITBS) is a common injury that predominantly affects long-distance runners although it can also strike cyclists, hikers, and weightlifters. Most people first experience IT Band Syndrome during the early part of a run or jog, often described as an intense, shooting pain that starts on the outside of the leg near the knee with pain radiating upward into relax.

IT Band Syndrome, or Iliotibial Band Syndrome, refers to develop an interior area of irritation known as a bursa, or small sack of fluid. This is what causes the pain of IT Band Syndrome. Some individuals suffering from IT Band Syndrome will also notice swelling of the knee as well as acute pain during physical activity.

Diagnosing IT Band Syndrome

Only a docto diagnose a case of IT Band Syndrome.

Treating IT Band Syndrome

If you experience any of the sympto any swollen areas.

If conditions improve, you may be able to resume normal activities at a reduced pace. Run, cycle, or hike shorter distances and begin every intense workout with a lengthy warm-up period at a slow pace.

Should the sympto once again move freely.

Symptoms of IT Band Syndrome

• Swelling of the knee.
• A shooting, stabbing pain in the knee radiating up to the thigh when running, cycling, weight lifting, or hiking.
• Pain when running or cycling up or down hills.
• Sharp pinpricks of pain in the hip area.
• Acute pain when flexing the knee during weightlifting exercises like squats.
• Pain that rapidly disappears with rest.

The History of IT Band Syndrome

Ever since long-distance running and cycling became popular sports more than a century ago, many athletes were crippled from pain and swelling caused by IT Band Syndrome. For many decades, it was believed that little could be done to address IT Band Syndrome other than lengthy bed rest and withdrawing from competition.

In the 1990s, researchers at Stanford University began examining athletes who suffered from IT Band Syndrome to the pain and swelling caused by IT Band Syndrome.

Preventing IT Band Syndrome

IT Band Syndrome is always the result of overextension of the IT ligament. By taking appropriate measures, it is possible to prevent the onset of IT Band Syndrome, including:

• Perform stretching exercises before any intense workout.
• Walk between a quarter-mile and half-mile before beginning a run.
• Wear appropriate footwear with a balanced, supporting sole.
• Run or hike in the middle of the road or on the flattest part of the trail.
• Avoid concrete and very hard surfaces.
• Cross-train whenever possible.
• If running on a track or oval, switch directions repeatedly.
• Take advantage of deep tissue massages to help stretch and loosen the IT ligament band.

A strengthening program can help athletes recover from the effects of IT Band Syndrome and prevent future injuries and pain. Docto excessive strain on the IT Band and the eventual development of IT Band Syndrome.

Exercises which help strengthen and to help individuals rehabilitate from the damage caused by IT Band Syndrome.

It’s also important to heal and strengthen.