Illiotibial Band Syndrome (IT Band)

The iliotibial band (commonly known as the IT band) helps to keep your knee stable when you exercise. It is made out of strong fibers called fascia, and runs from your pelvis down the outside of your leg into the outer part of your knee. IT band syndrome causes pain around the outside of the knee when running or doing exercise. IT band syndrome is common for people who do sports including: Running, Cycling, Jumping activities, Field sports, Hockey, Rowing, Breast stroke swimming, Hiking, and Basketball.

The pain often:

• starts when you begin to exercise more, or are training for an event like a marathon
• occurs at the same distance each time
• gets worse if you continue to exercise, particularly if you are running downhill

Why does IT band syndrome happen? The IT band moves as you bend your knee during exercise. It can start to rub on the outer part of the knee causing pain if:

• your IT band is tight
• you have an uneven running style
• your hip muscles are weak and/or sacrum and pelvis are out of alignment
  
• you participate in particular repetitive activities
  

Chiropractic can be extremely helpful by assuring even weight delivery through both hips and knees. Your doctor will likely do extensive muscle work, balance training, and adjusting.