1. Iliotibial Band Friction Syndrome (ITBS)

2. Development of ITBS

3. Can also develop in fast growing adolescents
Results from repetitive bending and straightening of the knee over a long period of time such as in:
Cyclists
Long distance runners
The friction from the fascia gliding over the lateral femoral condoyle irritates and inflames the distal insertion of the IT band fascia
Can also develop in fast growing adolescents

4. Other factors which can lead to development:
Abnormal mechanics of the hip, knee, and/or foot
Poor hip muscle strength and/or endurance
Decreased flexibility
Worn out shoes
Uneven surface training

5. Symptoms of Iliotibal Band Syndrome

6. Diffuse pain over lateral aspect of the knee using the palm of the hand
Pain starts insidiously, worsens after a person exercises and the pain onset time gets closer to initiation of the an exercise session

7. Differential Diagnosis Tests

8. The Ober’s test can indicate IT band tightness
Pain increases likelihood that the patient has ITBS
MRI can aid in diagnosis

9. Ober’s Test

10. Patient positioned in side-lying
Patient’s hip is extended, abducted and patient’s knee flexed.
Clinician allows the proximal part of the leg to drop passively onto the contralateral limb.
Considered positive when the ipsilateral legs fails to lower.

11. Recommendation

12. Patient education and activity modification
Initial treatment should include heat and cryotherapy to decrease inflammation
IT band massage
Stretching of affected limb
Strengthening of affected limb
Referral for corticosteroid injections can help reduce inflammation

13. Prognosis

14. A majority of patients will respond positively to conservative treatment
The few who do not will require surgical intervention