Iliotibial band syndrome

• Iliotibial band:

  • Sometimes called iliotibial tract
  • A thick band of fascia that runs down the lateral surface of the thigh
  • Stabilises the hip
  • Important structure in lower limb movement
• Iliotibial band syndrome:

  • Inflammation of the band
  • Its a common cause of lateral knee pain in athletes who undertake activities involving repetitive knee flexion, especially runners
  • Exact pathology unknown - likely repetitive flexion and extension of the knee causing impingement of the band against bone
• Symptoms:

  • Lateral knee pain
  • Usually aggravated by activity
  • Initially the pain is felt late in or after completion of activity but as it progresses it occurs earlier dying activity
  • An objective clicking or clunking sound may be heard during some movements
• Signs:

  • Tenderness to the lateral knee - typically 2-3cm superior to the joint line
  • An objective clicking or clunking sound may be heard during examination of the knee
  • No joint effusion
  • There are some special tests to help diagnose
• Management:

  • Modify activity
  • Analgesia - NSAIDs
  • Physiotherapy
  • Steroid injection
  • Surgery rarely needed