Iliotibial Band (ITB) Friction Syndrome - "runners knee"

The Iliotibial band (ITB) is a fibrous band extending from the hip to the outside of the knee. It is involved in stabilising the hip and knee, particularly in activities such as running.

The ITB may become tight for a number of reasons. This can cause pain down the side of the leg and cause friction where the band crosses the outside of the knee joint.

This is termed ITB Friction Syndrome, also known as ‘runners knee’

This pain is often worse on going down slopes or stairs and getting up from a seated position. It is a common complaint seen in physiotherapy sports injury clinics.

There are many causes of “runners knee”

• Tight ITB
• Poor foot biomechanics e.g overpronation
• Leg length difference
• Tight muscles such as Hamstrings, Calves, Gluteals, Quadriceps and Hip Flexors
• Weak hip stabilising muscles and poor core stability
• Overtraining
• Incorrect footwear

Self treatment that may be helpful initially

• Icing
• Non-steriodal antiinflammatories
• Massage to the outside of your thigh.
• Rest from aggravating activities.

If your knee pain persist it is worth having Sydney Physiotherapists accurately diagnose and assess the area. Physio treatment may include:

• Massage to the ITB and other tight muscles
• Advise on strengthening and stretching program

There are also many preventative measures that your physiotherapist may advise you on and these include:

• Strengthening work for the hip and knee and core muscles.
• Stretches for tight muscles.
• Shoe advice and or orthotics.
• Advice on cross training, and avoidance of overtraining

If you feel you have any of these symptoms, please call your Sydney Physiotherapist for further advice.