Pain in the lateral (outside) leg or knee is commonly associated with a condition known as Iliotibial Band Syndrome (ITBS). (Iliotibial Band Syndrome is also known as IT Band Syndrome, ITB Syndrome, or IT Band Friction Syndrome.) Pain can range from the lateral side of the leg up toward the hip area to just below the lateral side of the knee joint (where the head of the fibula bone begins).
The IT Band is a very thick fibrous band of tissue that spans from the hip’s origin point at a muscle known as the Tensor fasciae latae (TFL). The TFL transitions into the IT band and progresses down the lateral thigh and ends at the head of the fibula. The IT Band’s primary function is to provide additional lateral support for the knee joint (particularly when standing or landing on one leg).
IT Band Syndrome is often associated with an over use injury. Runners will often develop ITBS after running on uneven terrain or downhill. Gait or running abnormalities can increase your risk of developing ITBS. Although it can be very painful, it can be easily self-treated if you handle your pain and symptoms quickly.
A simple and effective method to self-treat ITBS is through the use of a mobility/compression band (such as an EDGE Mobility Band). In this video, I demonstrate how to use a mobility/compression band to mobilize the iliotibial band (also known as the IT Band) as a self-treatment method for ITBS.
Have you tried using a mobility band before to treat ITBS? If so, what was your experience like? Additional discussion can help others to manage this condition more effectively. Please leave your comments below.
For more information on how to self-treat ITBS, please refer to the following:
- How to Self-Treat IT Band Syndrome
- Marathon Training Academy Guest Post: 9 Tips to Self-Treat Iliotibial Band Syndrome
- I also address ITBS, along with other common running related injuries and treatment methods, on the Marathon Training Academy Podcast.
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