Department of Emergency Medicine

UMEM Educational Pearls

Category: Orthopedics

Title: Iliotibial band syndrome

Keywords: iliotibial band, knee pain (PubMed Search)

Posted: 1/22/2011 by Brian Corwell, MD (Updated: 2/19/2011)
Click here to contact Brian Corwell, MD

Iliotibial band syndrome (ITBS)

  • Due to recurrent friction of the iliotibial band (ITB) sliding over the lateral femoral condyle.


http://footcarexpress.com/foot-orthotics/wp-content/uploads/2009/01/iliotibial-band-syndrome.jpg


Hx -

  • Sharp or burning pain on the lateral aspect of the knee usually in runners.

  • Rarely occurs at start of run, rather, occurs after reproducible time or distance
  • (especially when running downhill)


PE-

  • Typically negative other than local tenderness (approx. 2cm above lateral joint line) & occasional swelling over the distal ITB.
  • 
Specialized tests: See also Ober's test and Noble's test


Tx

  • Most patients respond to conservative treatment involving NSAIDs, stretching of the iliotibial band, strengthening of the gluteus medius, and altering training regimens.


 

References



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