Background:

The Iliotibial band is a long, thick fibrotic band that extends from the bottom of the hip, the area above the bony portion of the side of the hip, down the lateral leg and attaches at the bottom of the outside of the knee. When we rub this band back and forth repeatedly over a friction like surface the band can become irritated, inflamed and produce pain.  There are two primary areas that this will happen; the first is at the bands origin and the second, and more common spot, is at the top of the lateral knee. This condition is most commonly seen in runners who run outside on uneven surfaces or who have an abnormality in their gate.  

Signs and Symptoms:

Someone suffering from Iliotibial Band Syndrome will describe pain that begins after running for an extended period of time; the pain will diminish when they stop running, but will come back the next time they try to run. The pain can be anywhere from a dull ache to an intense sharp pain.  There can be an associated swelling with the pain, but that is not always present.  

Treatment: