IT Band Syndrome

IT band syndrome is one of the more common running related injuries.  It involves pain and sometimes a snapping sensation on the outside portion of the knee.  Running certainly makes it worse, and rest makes it feel better.

So, what is the IT band?  The IT band is a thick band of connective tissue that runs from the hip to the knee.  The term ‘IT band’ is often demonized by runners because of the pain it can cause.  Believe it or not, the IT band actually serves a purpose. It helps stabilize your hip and leg when you move and even keeps your femur from bending!  Yes, the strongest bone in your body would bend if it weren’t for the IT band.

The IT band is very tough.  In fact, its strength has been likened to that of Kevlar, the material used in bullet proof vests.  Scientists have found that when stretched to maximal force the IT band only lengthens 0.2%.  As runners, our first inclination is to stretch or foam roll anything that is hurting. With the IT band, our time could be better spent somewhere else.

IT Band Syndrome is usually caused by over-training.  When running volume (number of miles) and/or intensity (how fast those miles are run) exceeds what the body can handle, injury is likely to occur.  Additionally, weak hip muscles, over striding, or imbalances around the foot or ankle can put excessive stress on the IT band causing it to become painful.

Our Approach to IT Band Syndrome

Many runners in Charlotte have found IT Band Syndrome relief through chiropractic, manual therapy, and corrective exercise here at TruMotion Therapy.  Since each person is unique, an individual approach is taken with each patient.  Listed below is our general approach at providing IT band syndrome relief.

• Address training errors. Just because something hurts, it doesn’t mean you have to stop running.  We will find the right level of training that will allow you to heal while staying as fit as possible.  Additionally, our AlterG Anti-Gravity Treadmill allows you to run with less impact so you can continue training and rehab quicker.
• Address the joints of the hips and feet. Research has found chiropractic adjustments can help restore motion of tight joints in the hips and feet, which may lead to reduced knee pain.
• Loosen the muscles around the hip and knee. We use techniques like massage, cupping, dry needling and laser therapy to reduce muscle tension, pain, and inflammation.
• Corrective exercise and stretches help restore balance and alignment in the body to help ease pain and prevent it from recurring.

If you live in or around the Charlotte area and are experiencing IT Band Syndrome or knee pain that doesn’t seem to get better, click here to work with our team and begin finding relief.