Runner’s knee or Illiotibial band friction syndrome is an ‘over-use’ injury, common in marathon runners, affecting the knee. What is the illiotibial band? This long tract of strong tissue runs from the pelvis, down the side of the femur, attaching itself to the lateral condyle of the femur (lateral aspect of the knee). This band of tissue rubs against the femur during extension and flexion (bending and straightening) of the knee. If the fascia is tight, the friction is exacerbated. This friction may cause the development of a small membrane sack which becomes filled with synovial fluid. It may be this bursa which causes the debilitating pain or the inflammation of the actual tendon sheath and its surrounding tissues.
What causes ITBFS?
- Long distance running
- Downhill running
- Poor biomechanics
- Cambered running surface
- Poor training schedule
- Improper shoe-wear
- Muscular imbalances in the thigh and leg
What are the signs and symptoms?
- Pain on downhill running
- Debilitating pain in the lateral aspect of the knee which is aggravated by running
- Pain occurs at approximately the same time or distance on each run
- Tenderness over the lateral aspect of the knee.
Treatment:
The success of treatment of any sports injury is dependent on accurate diagnosis, correct and helpful advice and the compliance of the sufferer. ITBFS is caused largely by the repetitive motion of long distance running. The main aim of treatment involves reduction of inflammation post exercise, the assisting in pre-exercise stretching and warming up, and the timeous referral for specialised diagnosis and treatment
General Advice:
- See your podiatrist as soon as possible for an accurate assessment, diagnosis and treatment regime.
- Rest: avoid pain-provoking activities like running downhill
- Reduce activity levels
- Ice the area: empty ice cubes into a kitchen towel. Apply towel to affected area for 15-20 seconds, then remove. Repeat three to six times
- Elevate the area
