 
WHAT IS IT?
The iliotibial (IT) band is a strong and thick band of fibrous tissue which runs from the outside of the thigh, where it extends from the tensor fascia lata muscle, down to the external part of the knee where it inserts onto the tibial bone (see image on the right).
With movement of the knee, the IT band slides over the external epicondyle of the femur bone (see image on the right) in a back and forth motion, such as a windshield wiper.
If the IT band becomes tight (i.e. with decreased flexibility), it rubs over the lateral epicondyle excessively, which causes inflammation if done repeatedly. Inflammation of the IT band is particularly common in runners and bikers.
The main symptom is pain and possibly swelling on the outer side of the knee or thigh. The pain is also more intense with physical activity, particularly running, walking, biking, and descending stairs.
RISK FACTORSÂ :
- Overuse of the iliotibial band (overtraining is the most common cause of ITBS)
- Reduced flexibility/tightness of the iliotibial band
- Weakness of the hip abductors
- Running on banked surfaces or on a hill
- Anatomical abnormalities (e.g. flat or arched feet)
- Biomechanical abnormalities (improper running technique)
- With bikers, IT band syndrome is often caused by an improper positioning on their bicycle (e.g. a bike seat which is set too high)
- Long distance runners are more at risk of developing IT band syndrome compared to short distance runners or sprinters (since the IT band is placed under greater tension during long distance runs)
WHAT DO PHYSIOTHERAPY TREATMENTS CONSIST OF?
Firstly, physiotherapy treatments will aim to reduce the pain and inflammation present with the use of electrotherapy (such as ultrasound or TENS), ice and proper education regarding movements/activities that may worsen your condition and thus that should be avoided for the time being. Your therapist will also correct your training biomechanics and will teach you how to improve your training or running technique. Then, your therapist will use a wide array of manual therapy and muscle release techniques, and will prescribe effective stretching and muscle strengthening exercises. Therefore, please consult a Forcemedic physiotherapist as soon as possible for a quick recovery!