One of the most common running injuries is known as ITBFS- iliotibial band friction syndrome. This can be a pesky problem often starting out as a low grade ache in your knee- something very forgettable and more of a nuisance than anything- to a sharp stabbing pain making you stop in your tracks. 

So what is the ITB?

It is a robust, fibrous fascia. The muscles TFL (tensor fascia latae) and gluteus maximus  insert to this fascia. The ITB then ends at the outside of the knee, around the knee cap and fibula.

There have been studies which have demonstrated although the ITB itself can not be stretched, the muscles attaching to it can. 

Why am I having pain?

The old theory is that the ITB would move forward and backward over a bony prominence around the knee (called the lateral femoral epicondyle- LFE.) It was thought that this movement would create friction, leading to inflammation of the underlying bursa; therefore pain. Numerous studies have shown the presence of a bursa to be very low; both in those with and without ITBFS. 

It is thought that pain is from compression of a highly innervated and richly vascularised layer of fat between the LFE and ITB. 

Because symptoms are at the knee, the treatment of this issue can be poor with holistic management often overlooked. ITBFS more often than not results from a number of compounding factors including hip weakness, training load increase and poor running technique. 

So if you're having pain or issues with ITBFS, come into Mead Physio Group- we will have you up and running in no time!

Call 9293 1800 or book online at www.meadphysiogroup.com.au