liotibial band syndrome, also known as IT band syndrome, is one of the most common overuse injuries of the leg, particularly in those who are involved in endurance sports such as running or biking. Depending on the severity of your IT band syndrome that you’re experiencing, Dr. Larson will recommend a treatment plan that’s the best fit to get you back to your active life.

Not sure if the pain you’re experiencing is IT band syndrome? Here are the most common symptoms you may experience with this overuse injury:

• Pain on the lateral side of the knee(s) that is made worse when their heel strikes the ground
• A snapping/popping sound at the knee
• Potential swelling near the outside of the knee
• Pain radiating up the IT band area (lateral part of the leg) all the way to the outer side of the thigh/hip

Potential Causes of IT Band Syndrome

There are numerous potential causes of IT band syndrome, some of them being poor training habits, poor flexibility of muscle, and other potential mechanical imbalances in the body, particularly within the pelvis, lower back, hips, and knees. While the causes above could be the culprit of your developing IT band syndrome, there could be some genetic factors at play as well. Anatomy issues such as differences in the length of legs, an abnormal tilt to the pelvis, or bowed legs could cause the IT band to tighten up and cause issues. Whatever the cause of the pain in your IT band, there are treatment options available that can help to ease your pain and get you back in the game.

Available Treatments for IT Band Syndrome

When you schedule your appointment with Dr. Larson, he will gather a thorough medical history based on your symptoms to determine the best treatment plan for you. After a physical exam, he will recommend the course of action that will be the best fit for you and your injury. Depending on what he finds, the following treatments may be recommended:

• Physical therapy
• Anti-inflammatory medications
• Activity modifications
• Steroid injections
• RICE (rest, ice, compression, & elevation)
• Stretching, massage, foam rolling

If the conservative treatments above don’t help ease your IT band pain, in some cases, surgery may be recommended. However, more often than not with IT band syndrome, conservative treatment is the best course of action and provides relief for those needing it. If surgery is recommended, an arthroscopy can be used to find the inflammation surrounding the IT band and cut it away.

Schedule An Appointment with Dr. Larson

Dr. Larson is an orthopaedic specialist with any disorders of the knee and surrounding areas. He has made it his life’s mission to continue learning and expanding his knowledge in medicine, allowing him to provide the highest possible quality of healthcare to his patients. To schedule an appointment with him, please call 435-774-8512.