The Iliotibial band syndrome has been a source of significant debate when it comes to its aetiology, pathology and treatment.
That is mainly because the iliotibial band itself is an intriguing mystery in sports medicine.
The IT band as it is commonly called is the area that runs along the outside our thigh - from above the hip to just below our knee.
The band is made up of fascia, a connective tissue that is elastic in nature and that is found throughout our body.
The IT band however is the largest piece of fascia in the human body.
It is still not clear whether the IT band evolved for running or walking but researchers do know that it stores more elastic energy during running than walking.
The basic theory is that it plays an important role in locomotion. As our limbs move, the IT band stretches accordingly.
When we move backward, energy is stored and as our leg swings forward, the energy is released. The concept is more or less similar to that of recycling energy.
What are the primary symptoms?
The two primary muscles involved in the IT band syndrome are the buttock muscle and the tensor fasciae latae muscles.
That is why the syndrome is also often referred to as the Tensor Fasciae Latae Syndrome.
The primary symptom of IT band syndrome is a sharp pain in the outer area of the knee. This pain can radiate into the outer thigh or calf.
In some cases, the pain can also spread onto the hip.
Most runners experience more pain going downhill and many experience symptoms only during the activities.
However, as the syndrome progresses, it occurs even when they walk.
Preventative Measures:
Despite the fact that the IT band syndrome is very common among runners and cyclists, the underlying cause still remains unknown.
However, those who wish to pursue their running career without the complication of the IT band syndrome, there are some very simple preventive measures that can be undertaken.
These include the use of proper and supportive running shoes. Shoes should be changed at regular intervals since running shoes tend to lose half of their shock absorptive capacity after approximately 300 miles.
Thus, wearing the same shoe for too long increases the risk of ITBS and other injuries.
In addition, those who actively run and cycle should do strengthening exercises regularly to avoid IT band syndrome.
Finally, runners should avoid doing too much too soon. The volume of activity should not be increased by more than 5 to 10 percent per week.
If the individual wants to go for a longer run, he should do it at a slower pace so as to avoid the risk of injury.
The type of running surface can also play a role in increasing the likelihood of IT band syndrome.
The important thing to remember is that the earlier the syndrome is diagnosed and treated, the less are the chances of it becoming a chronic condition.
Since the cause of the syndrome remains unclear, runners should ensure they are following basic guidelines to ensure they do not overstretch or overuse the IT band.
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