Iliotibial Band Syndrome
Andreas Leonidou
Orthopaedic Surgeon
56 Kifisias Ave. & Delfon St.,Λεωφ.
Marousi, 15125
- Symptoms
- Conservative Treatment
- Surgical Treatment
- Cost
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Iliotibial band syndrome is a fairly common condition that causes knee pain in athletes, especially runners.
What Is the Iliotibial Band?
The iliotibial band is a thick band – a connective tissue fascia that extends along the outer side of the thigh, starting from the hip and reaching below the outer surface of the knee.
Iliotibial band syndrome is caused by excessive friction of the band against the knee joint, resulting in swelling, inflammation, and pain.
Iliotibial Band Syndrome – Causes
Muscle weakness and tight muscles: Weakness or tightness in the muscles surrounding the hip and knee joints can cause irritation of the iliotibial band. In particular, weak gluteal muscles and tight hip flexors may contribute to the development of symptoms.
Training errors: Overuse and inappropriate training techniques, such as increasing mileage or intensity too quickly.
Exercising with inappropriate footwear on hard surfaces.
Pre-existing leg length discrepancy or anatomical foot problems – such as flat feet.
Iliotibial Band Syndrome – Symptoms
Pain: The main symptom is pain and tenderness on the outer side of the knee, which usually worsens with activity. The pain may start as mild discomfort and progress to severe – sharp pain. In some cases, the pain may also radiate up the thigh towards the hip. Typically, the pain appears after completing exercise or even towards the end of the activity.
Pain when going up or down stairs or hills.
Pain that worsens with prolonged sitting or standing.
A grinding sensation and a “clicking” sound when bending or straightening the knee.
Stiffness or reduced range of motion in the knee joint.
Iliotibial Band Syndrome – Diagnosis
A patient with iliotibial band syndrome requires assessment by a specialist Orthopaedic Surgeon. Dr Leonidou will take a detailed medical history and examine you. The doctor may perform an ultrasound scan for the final diagnosis and will discuss the recommended treatment options with you. Occasionally, further investigations such as plain X-rays or an MRI scan may be required to investigate other possible causes of the symptoms.
Iliotibial Band Syndrome – Treatment
Rest: Resting the knee joint and avoiding activities that worsen symptoms helps reduce pain and inflammation.
Ice therapy: Applying ice to the knee for 15–20 minutes at a time, 3–4 times per day. Make sure the ice does not come into direct contact with the skin.
Compression: The use of a knee brace or a simple elastic bandage helps relieve symptoms.
Physiotherapy: An individualised programme with muscle strengthening exercises, especially targeting the hip muscles.
Sports massage that helps release adhesions.
Stretching: Proper hip and knee stretching exercises help reduce tension on the iliotibial band.
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
Injection therapy: In persistent cases, treatment with platelet-rich plasma (PRP – biological therapies) may be indicated. In some cases, a corticosteroid injection may be recommended to help reduce inflammation and pain.
Surgical repair: In the rare cases where conservative treatment fails, release and/or lengthening of the iliotibial band at the level of the knee provides a definitive solution.
Iliotibial Band Syndrome – Prevention
Proper warm-up and stretching before starting exercise.
Strengthening of the hip muscles, especially the abductors and flexors.
Appropriate running shoes, which should be replaced after a certain number of kilometres depending on their specifications.
Avoid running on asphalt or concrete. It is better to run on surfaces with suitable flooring to reduce loads on your knee.
Gentle stretching after completing exercise.
Gradual increase of training intensity and duration.
Iliotibial Band Syndrome – When Can I Return to Running?
Every case is different, and recovery time depends on the severity of symptoms and the underlying cause. During recovery, you can try another form of exercise such as swimming. Take the necessary time to recover and do not return to training until you have fully recovered in order to avoid recurrence. When returning to running, it is important to gradually increase mileage, always combined with proper warm-up and stretching.
If you have persistent and severe knee pain, consult the specialist Orthopaedic Surgeon Dr Andreas Leonidou. For more
Book your appointment for immediate diagnosis, specialist care, and targeted treatment in just one visit.