What causes Iliotibial Band Syndrome and what is the best treatment for it?

Also known as ‘runner’s knee’, Iliotibial Band Syndrome is a medical condition that usually affects the outside of the knee. Although it can be seen mostly in long-distance runners, it is also a condition that people across many sports suffer from. But what causes this syndrome and what is the best treatment for it?

What causes Iliotibial Band Syndrome?

In simple terms, Iliotibial Band Syndrome centres around the Iliotibial Band within your body. This is a band of connective tissue which covers the outside of your thigh. Its main function is to stabilise the hip and knee during movement. Most people with this condition normally find it comes on gradually over time, rather than due to one major event. Common symptoms to look out for include:

– Pain on the outside of the knee when running

– Outside of the knee tender to touch

– Swelling/inflammation to the outside of the knee

– Snapping sound heard when the knee is bent or straightened

The main cause of this issue is compression at the point your Iliotibial Band passes over your knee. When this happens in an uninjured person, a fluid-filled sac known as a bursa ensures the IT Band passes smoothly over your knee when it is bent/straightened. For a number of reasons, some people’s IT Band begins to cause compression in this area, and this can cause pain, usually when running or walking up or down stairs.

What is the best treatment for Iliotibial Band Syndrome?

Although treatments like stretching, foam rollers, massage and rehab exercise have been used in the past, they all have their issues in terms of treating this syndrome effectively. Advances in science, tech and the understanding of IT Band conditions have led to a new treatment emerging – Magnetic Shockwave Therapy.

Also known as MST, this makes use of electromagnetic pulses to work safely on nerves deep inside your body. When used to target the area affected by this syndrome, it can help to reduce pain, speed up recovery and reduce swelling. By desensitising your nervous system and increasing blood flow in the affected area, the healing process is given a boost and you should see your condition improve.

IT Band treatment London

The above shows not only what causes this syndrome but also that Magnetic Shockwave Therapy treatment is a great way to tackle it. For more information on this treatment or to book a consultation, get in touch with RTMS London today at rtmsharley@gmail.com or via the contact form on our website.

Posted on 15th August 2022