Condition
Illio-Tibal (IT) Band Syndrome. Also known as “runner’s knee”
Area Affected, Tendon Affected
Lateral knee, Undersurface of the illio-tibal tract
Commentary
Illioibial band syndrome (ITBS) is a repetitive stress injury. It occurs when there is irritation to this band of fibrous tissue. The irritation usually occurs over the outside of the knee joint, at the lateral epicondyle of the femur (thigh) bone. The IT band crosses bone and muscle at this point.
Between these structures is a bursa which should facilitate a smooth gliding motion over the epicondyle. However, when inflamed, the IT band does not glide easily & pain associated with movement is the result.
Who is Affected
– Lower extremity athletes such as runners and cyclists
– Hikers
